Arco da Porta Nova (Arch of the New Gate), Braga
The Arch of the New Gate is a magnificent ornamental gateway that serves as an entrance to the historic center of Braga from the western side. This architectural gem, located on the pedestrianized Rua do D. Diogo de Sousa, is not only a functional passageway but also a striking piece of art and history.
The history of the arch traces back to the late 1300s when a gate was first erected on this spot as part of the city's defensive walls. However, the Arco da Porta Nova in its present form was designed by the renowned architect Andr茅 Soares in the 1770s. The western face of the Arco da Porta Nova is characterized by the opulent Baroque style for which Soares became famous. It features intricate details and ornate decorations that are characteristic of the Baroque period. On this side, one can admire the allegorical figure of Braga, a tribute to the city's identity and history.
In contrast, the eastern side of the arch adopts a neoclassical design, showcasing the versatility and adaptability of Andr茅 Soares' architectural vision. Here, a statue of the Virgin Mary graces the arch, adding a touch of spirituality and grace to the structure.
As you pass through this remarkable gateway, you'll find yourself on Rua Dom Diogo de Sousa, a charming pedestrianized street that leads to Braga's Cathedral and the Igreja Miseric贸rdia. Along this lively street, you'll discover an array of popular bars, restaurants, and shops, many of which offer outdoor seating during the summer months.
The history of the arch traces back to the late 1300s when a gate was first erected on this spot as part of the city's defensive walls. However, the Arco da Porta Nova in its present form was designed by the renowned architect Andr茅 Soares in the 1770s. The western face of the Arco da Porta Nova is characterized by the opulent Baroque style for which Soares became famous. It features intricate details and ornate decorations that are characteristic of the Baroque period. On this side, one can admire the allegorical figure of Braga, a tribute to the city's identity and history.
In contrast, the eastern side of the arch adopts a neoclassical design, showcasing the versatility and adaptability of Andr茅 Soares' architectural vision. Here, a statue of the Virgin Mary graces the arch, adding a touch of spirituality and grace to the structure.
As you pass through this remarkable gateway, you'll find yourself on Rua Dom Diogo de Sousa, a charming pedestrianized street that leads to Braga's Cathedral and the Igreja Miseric贸rdia. Along this lively street, you'll discover an array of popular bars, restaurants, and shops, many of which offer outdoor seating during the summer months.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Braga. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51爆料网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Download The 51爆料网 App
Arco da Porta Nova (Arch of the New Gate) on Map
Sight Name: Arco da Porta Nova (Arch of the New Gate)
Sight Location: Braga, Portugal (See walking tours in Braga)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Braga, Portugal (See walking tours in Braga)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Braga, Portugal
Create Your Own Walk in Braga
Creating your own self-guided walk in Braga is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Historical Religious Sites Walking Tour
Braga is a prominent destination in Portugal's Religious Tourism segment, primarily due to its vibrant Holy Week celebrations and rich ecclesiastical architecture. Indeed, being one of the world's oldest Christian cities, Braga boasts an extensive religious legacy. Much like Rome, it seamlessly interweaves art and spirituality throughout its historic center.
Here, you will find a... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.4 Km or 0.9 Miles
Here, you will find a... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.4 Km or 0.9 Miles
Braga Introduction Walking Tour
The history of Braga, Portugal's religious capital, spans millennia. Located in the northern Minho region, this city is also one of the country's oldest, reportedly founded by Bracari Celts.
Braga's origin is closely associated with the Roman conquest in 136 BC, culminating in the establishment of Bracara Augusta in 16 BC, a pivotal location within the newly-formed Gallaecia... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.0 Km or 1.2 Miles
Braga's origin is closely associated with the Roman conquest in 136 BC, culminating in the establishment of Bracara Augusta in 16 BC, a pivotal location within the newly-formed Gallaecia... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.0 Km or 1.2 Miles