Description of the attraction
Bragança, the capital of the district of the same name, was founded in 1187. This ancient city, which is located in the north of Portugal, is one of the least explored cities in the country, and one of the most interesting because of its architectural monuments.
The Citadel of Bragança, built in the 12th century, is one of the most impressive monuments. The fortress, like the city, is named after the Celtic goddess of victory, Brigantia.
The citadel, surrounded by thick fortified walls, was built in 1130 by Fernand Mendes, King's matchmaker Alfonso Henriques. In 1187, King Sanshu I built a castle with towers and a donjon inside, which was later fortified by King João I. The citadel consists of 15 towers and 4 gates.
Near the castle is one of the famous towers - the Princess Tower. According to legend, in this tower was locked the wife of the Duke of Bragança, Donna Leonora, whom the Duke suspected of treason and who was then killed.
In the central part is Domus Municipalis - the city hall in the shape of a five-pointed star, the only remaining monument of Romanesque architecture in Portugal. Domus Municipalis is the only building of this form, not only in Portugal, but also in Europe. The building has recently undergone restoration work.
Also on the territory there is the Church of St. Mary, the granite portal of which surprises with its skillful carving. Inside, attention is drawn to the cylindrical vaulted painted ceiling, which is characteristic of the architecture of some Bragança churches in the 18th century.
It is also worth mentioning another tower of the citadel, Torri di Menagen, which now houses a military museum.
