Day 5 Oct 1 - Porto, Guimaraes and Braga

Guimaraes is considered the birthplace of Portugal as it was here that the fist king of Portugal chose to establish his court. The Guimaraes Castle became the official royal residence from 1139, when Portugal became independent from the Kingdom of Leon, until circa 1200. The grounds also has a palace which is still used today by dignitaries.

A tapestry hanging on the wall of the Palace.

Various Pictures of the Palace:

Medieval version of a man cave:

Photos of the Castle:

The Cathedral of Guimaraes:

Braga is an important religious city and has an impressive sanctuary with 696 steps.  To give you perspective the Calgary tower has 827.

Braga street view:

Viana do Castelo Santuario de Santa Luzia (Basilica)- Supposed to have a great view of the ocean in the background but as you can see a little foggy today.

Here is the ocean views - below the fog: