Paco dos Duques de Braganca (Palace of the Dukes of Braganca), Guimaraes

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Paco dos Duques de Braganca (Palace of the Dukes of Braganca), Guimaraes

Paco dos Duques de Braganca (Palace of the Dukes of Braganca), Guimaraes (must see)

Steeped in history, the Palace of the Dukes of Braganca serves as a tangible link to Portugal's regal past. Constructed in the 15th century, the palace was commissioned by D. Afonso, the 1st Duke of the House of Bragança and the 8th Count of Barcelos. D. Afonso, an illegitimate son of King D. João I and D. Inês Pires Esteves, undertook the building of this noble residence during his second marriage to D. Constança de Noronha. D. Constança, the daughter of D. Afonso, Count of Gijón and Noronha, and D. Isabel, Lady of Viseu, added a touch of regal splendor to the palace's lineage.

During the 15th century, the palace thrived as a hub of aristocratic life. However, with the passage of centuries, it faced progressive abandonment and subsequent decay due to various factors. The once-majestic structure witnessed a gradual decline, succumbing to the ravages of time.

In a remarkable feat of architectural revitalization, the palace experienced a renaissance between 1937 and 1959. Architect Rogério de Azevedo spearheaded an extensive and intricate reconstruction project, breathing new life into the historic edifice. Today, the Palace of the Dukes of Braganca, serves as both a museum and a cultural sanctuary, offering insights into the opulence of bygone eras. The palace's storied past unfolds in each room, allowing guests to appreciate the architectural finesse and historical significance that define this cultural landmark.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Guimaraes. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51±¬ÁÏÍø: 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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Paco dos Duques de Braganca (Palace of the Dukes of Braganca) on Map

Sight Name: Paco dos Duques de Braganca (Palace of the Dukes of Braganca)
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

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

Guimaraes Introduction Walking Tour

Guimarães, 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, Guimarães 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