As 2025 begins, I am here with another edition of Pelos Caminhos de Portugal, renewing my wishes for everyone to have a Happy New Year filled with health, peace, and love—always with safety, as these three things are essential for living a calm life. And let’s not forget a bit of money in our wallets to cope with the ever-rising cost of living.
We ended last year with a journey to Aveiro, the first Portuguese Capital of Culture in 2024, and now we begin the year in the north with the new Capital of Culture, Braga 2025.
The Portuguese Capitals of Culture initiative emerged from the process of bidding for the European Capitals of Culture for 2027. Three cities—Aveiro, Braga, and Ponta Delgada—were finalists in this European contest. Next year, it will be the turn of the Azorean city of Ponta Delgada to carry the title.
Ready to embark on this journey of discovery in the City of Archbishops, we’ll delve into its fascinating millennia-old history, rich culture, and delicious gastronomy. But first, let’s take a step back into its past. Evidence of human presence here dates back thousands of years before Christ, as shown by the Mamoa de Lamas from the Neolithic period, located a few kilometres from the city. From the Iron Age, we have the Castro de Monte Redondo, and more recently, Roman structures such as roads, bridges, and thermal baths, like those at the Ínsula das Carvalheiras. Some Roman constructions remain in remarkably good condition, such as bridges still in use over the River Cávado.
Braga is believed to have been explored by the Romans around the 2nd century BCE. After conquering the entire Iberian Peninsula, Emperor Augustus recognised the potential of the area and ordered the founding of Bracara Augusta, named after the Bracari people who inhabited this region, then part of Gallaecia, covering today’s northern Portugal, Galicia, and Asturias. Augusta honoured the Emperor himself.
Bracara Augusta became one of the most prosperous cities of its time, maintaining this status until the 2nd century CE. Historical records estimate its population exceeded 280,000—a significant number for that era. However, its golden age began to wane due to the depletion of its once-rich gold deposits, which had been a primary source of income. The city later revived its fortunes but faced invasions by barbarian peoples. Initially, these invaders coexisted peacefully, but instability and conflict soon erupted.
Bracara Augusta eventually became the first Catholic kingdom in the region, serving as the capital of the Suevic Kingdom after defeating the Romans and the barbarians. This kingdom lasted for a little over 170 years before the arrival of the Moors, who gradually took control of the area, diminishing the influence of Christianity, which retreated to the mountains.
Over time, Bracara Augusta evolved into Braga. By 560 CE, it was designated a diocesan seat and became home to numerous convents, monasteries, and churches. During the Reconquista, Christian monarchs like the King of León and Castile expanded their domains, establishing the County of Portugal. The city was later gifted to the Archbishops of Braga by Queen Teresa of León and her husband, Henry of Burgundy, in 1112. This arrangement remained unchanged even after Portugal’s independence under King Afonso Henriques, as a gesture of gratitude for the Church’s support in founding the kingdom.
Braga’s history is intertwined with legends of saints such as St. James the Greater and St. Quiteria, the daughter of a Roman emperor. Beyond being known as the City of Archbishops, Braga is also famed for its three sacred hills—Bom Jesus, Sameiro, and Falperra—each bearing significant religious and cultural landmarks, including the iconic Via Sacra at Bom Jesus.
Despite its deep historical roots, Braga is one of the youngest cities in Portugal demographically. This contrast between ancient heritage and youthful vibrancy makes it a fitting choice as the 2025 Capital of Culture. The official programme begins on 25 January, with a year-long celebration featuring theatre, cinema, exhibitions, folklore, music, youth and senior gatherings, and culinary showcases. Mayor Ricardo Rio envisions Braga as a hub of creativity and innovation, bringing culture to the streets and making it accessible to all. Investments in cultural infrastructure, such as the São Francisco Convent and the Francisco Sanches Cultural Centre, aim to leave a lasting legacy.
As we explore Braga, we must not miss its culinary delights: traditional dishes like Papas de Serrabulho, Cabrito à Moda de Braga, and Arroz de Pato à Moda de Braga—paired with regional bread and the famed vinho verde. For dessert, Braga’s conventual sweets, such as Pudim do Abade de Priscos and Fidalguinhos, are a must-try.
Braga, steeped in history, played pivotal roles during the French invasions and Liberal Wars. It became a vital link between Porto and Galicia with the opening of its railway station in 1875. Today, it thrives as a hub of economic activity, technological innovation, and entrepreneurial energy, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Peneda-Gerês National Park and the majestic Cávado River.
I hope you enjoyed this first journey of 2025 through the Paths of Portugal, visiting the City of Archbishops, one of the routes of the Camino de Santiago and recognised as one of Europe’s best destinations in 2021. If you haven’t visited yet, make sure to include Braga in your itinerary for your next trip to Portugal.
Idalina Henriques
Renewed wishes for a Happy New Year 2025!
