15th century residence of Afonso, Count of Barcelos, the future Dukes of Braganca. Now a National Monument, after years of ruin the palace has been restored to its former glory
Heralded as the birthplace of Portugal as we know it today, the role of Guimarães in establishing Portugal’s status as an independent country and national identity is significant. Already housing an important monastery, protected from Moorish and Norman attack by a formidable castle and fortifications, in the 12th century Guimaraes also witnessed the birth of Portugal’s first king, Dom…
