Largo do Toural (Toural Square), Guimaraes (must see)
Toural Square stands as the focal point and heart of Guimar茫es. The historical significance of this square can be traced back to the 17th century when it served as a venue for cattle fairs and bullfights. Located adjacent to the main City Gate and initially outside the city walls, the square derived its name from these early events.
In the 18th century, Queen D. Maria I played a pivotal role in shaping the square's transformation. The old wall on the east side was demolished at her command, making way for the construction of uniform houses characterized by Pombaline architecture. This marked a turning point, as commercial spaces were integrated into the square's landscape.
During this period, the creation of the Public Garden, surrounded by an ornate iron fence, added a touch of greenery to Toural. In 1878, the garden opened to the public, becoming a central feature of the square. As the 19th century unfolded, Toural solidified its status as one of Guimaraes' most important squares, attracting locals and serving as a popular meeting place.
With the establishment of the Republic in 1910, the Public Garden underwent relocation to another site, and Toural underwent further changes. The statue of D. Afonso Henriques, originally placed in the square, was moved closer to the Castle. In its stead, an eye-catching artistic fountain adorned the square, adding a new dimension to its ambiance.
In the 18th century, Queen D. Maria I played a pivotal role in shaping the square's transformation. The old wall on the east side was demolished at her command, making way for the construction of uniform houses characterized by Pombaline architecture. This marked a turning point, as commercial spaces were integrated into the square's landscape.
During this period, the creation of the Public Garden, surrounded by an ornate iron fence, added a touch of greenery to Toural. In 1878, the garden opened to the public, becoming a central feature of the square. As the 19th century unfolded, Toural solidified its status as one of Guimaraes' most important squares, attracting locals and serving as a popular meeting place.
With the establishment of the Republic in 1910, the Public Garden underwent relocation to another site, and Toural underwent further changes. The statue of D. Afonso Henriques, originally placed in the square, was moved closer to the Castle. In its stead, an eye-catching artistic fountain adorned the square, adding a new dimension to its ambiance.
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Largo do Toural (Toural Square) on Map
Sight Name: Largo do Toural (Toural Square)
Sight Location: Guimaraes, Portugal (See walking tours in Guimaraes)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Guimaraes, Portugal (See walking tours in Guimaraes)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Guimaraes, Portugal
Create Your Own Walk in Guimaraes
Creating your own self-guided walk in Guimaraes 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.
Guimaraes Introduction Walking Tour
Guimar茫es, the capital of the industrious Ave region of Portugal, is one of the country's most beautiful and authentic cities. Because of its pivotal role in the nation's history, Guimar茫es also holds the esteemed title of the "birthplace of Portugal" or "the cradle city". The latter, in part, is due to the first King of Portugal, Afonso Henriques, being born here... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles