Basilica dos Congregados (Basilica of the Congregants), Braga

Basilica of the Congregants is also known as the Convent, College, and Church of the Congregates. Construction of this basilica commenced in the early 18th century during the height of the Baroque architectural style, although by the time it was completed in the 1960s, the architectural trends had shifted from Baroque to Rococo and Neoclassical. The result is a stunning and unique church characterized by a harmonious blend of various architectural influences, both inside and out.

The church's architectural design is credited to the renowned architect Andr茅 Soares. It boasts two impressive bell towers that rise majestically above the fa莽ade, adding to the basilica's grandeur. The fa莽ade itself is adorned with two notable statues, crafted by sculptor Manuel Nogueira da Silva, depicting saints Filipe de Nery and Martinho de Dume. These statues were the final additions to the church, completed in 1964, and they contribute to the basilica's visual appeal.

However, it is the interior of the Basilica dos Congregados that truly captivates visitors with its impressive beauty and intricate details. The basilica's interior is flooded with natural light, enhancing the grandeur of its architectural elements. The nave features a false barrel-vaulted roof lined with cork. Throughout the interior, visitors can admire a collection of impressive statues and religious scenes.

One notable feature inside the basilica is the pipe organ, which is adorned with gilded and polychrome carving. Unlike the traditional placement of organs within the choir space, this pipe organ is located on a small side balcony, adding to the basilica's architectural uniqueness.

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.

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Sight Name: Basilica dos Congregados (Basilica of the Congregants)
Sight Location: Braga, Portugal (See walking tours in Braga)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Historical Religious Sites Walking Tour

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.

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

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

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