Easy hikes and walks around Merelim (São Paio)

The Arco da Porta Nova is a famous ornamental triumphal arch in Braga, Portugal, featuring a blend of Baroque and Neoclassical styles, a design by architect André Soares, and a historical role as the ceremonial gateway where city keys were given to visitors.

Arch of the New Gate is an iconic, 18th-century Baroque and Neoclassical triumphal arch that serves as the symbolic western gateway to the historic center of ⁠Braga.

In the center of the garden, you can find a 17th-century fountain, which was previously located in an old convent of nuns, and at its top is Santa Barbara, born in Turkey and the heroine of a story that ended tragically. How? I won't write it here, come and see and learn this tragic story..

At the bottom of the garden, a high stone wall carved by the mojos resembles a castle. This facade is part of the Medieval Palace of Braga and was erected in the late Middle Ages, on the initiative of Archbishops D. Gonçalo de Pereira and D. Fernando Guerra. It currently functions as the District Archive of Braga and is part of a larger complex called the Episcopal Palace of Braga. https://webraga.pt/visitar/parques/jardim-de-santa-barbara/

Santa Barbara is one of the most beautiful gardens in Braga. It balances the principles of geometry with the randomness of colors from flowers, vegetation, and birds.

The palace was built in the 17th century for D. Rodrigo de Moura Teles, the then Archbishop of Braga. The baroque architecture of the building is characterized by intricate details, dramatic curves, and ornate decorations. The facade with its grand entrance and decorative elements is a striking example of the architectural style of that period. The interior of the palace is equally impressive, with spacious rooms, high ceilings, and ornate plasterwork. The rooms are adorned with intricate frescoes, gilded moldings, and marble fireplaces. The palace also houses a beautiful chapel, which is a masterpiece of Baroque sacred art. https://worldcitytrail.com/pl/2024/11/10/palacio-do-raio-w-bradze/

A magnificent baroque palace located in the historic city of Braga, Portugal. This stunning building, with its ornate facade and elegant interior, offers a fascinating glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Portuguese nobility.

The Arco da Porta Nova was originally built in 1512 under the guidance of Archbishop Diogo de Sousa, a visionary who played a pivotal role in the modernization of Braga. Sousa's tenure as archbishop marked a period of significant urban renewal, and the construction of the Arco da Porta Nova was a testament to his ambition to transform Braga into a city of splendor and importance. However, the arch we see today is the result of a later reconstruction in the late 18th century. Under the orders of Archbishop José de Bragança, the Porta Nova was redesigned to reflect the baroque and neoclassical styles that were fashionable at the time. This reconstruction was not merely an aesthetic undertaking but also a symbolic one, aiming to make the gateway more notable and befitting of the city's status. Throughout its history, the Arco da Porta Nova has served as a ceremonial entry point to the city. It was here that the keys to the city were traditionally presented to visiting dignitaries and notable figures, marking their formal welcome to Braga. This tradition underscores the arch's role as a symbol of hospitality and prestige. https://www.mycityhunt.com/cities/braga-pt-10340/poi/arco-da-porta-nova-10306