Guimaraes is a city in Portugal that is considered the cradle of the country. Located in the north of Portugal, it is rich in architectural monuments and is home to the oldest fortress in the country, Castelo de Guimaraes. The city was founded in the 12th century and played a significant role in the formation of the Portuguese nation and state.

Visitors to Guimaraes can immerse themselves in the medieval atmosphere as they walk through the winding streets of the old town. The city's history dates back to the founding of the County of Portugal, which later became the Portuguese Kingdom, and it was here that Portugal's national identity was forged.


Castelo de Guimaraes stands as a symbol of this rich history and serves as a reminder of the glory days of the Portuguese empire. Visitors can explore the fortress's walls and learn about its significance in Portuguese history.

Next to it, there is another remarkable example of medieval architecture: the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, which testifies to the high status and wealth of its former owners. The building looks quite unusual, more like a castle from Northern Europe. Nowadays, the palace houses a museum with permanent exhibitions of Portuguese and Flemish tapestries from the 17th and 18th centuries, as well as medieval weapons and antique objects.

It was no coincidence that Guimarães was selected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in December 2001.