Guimarães
About Guimarães
Guimarães holds a special place in the hearts of the Portuguese, who affectionately call it the 'birthplace of the nation'. This is the city where Portugal's identity was forged, a place of immense historical pride and beautifully preserved medieval character.
It was in Guimarães that Afonso Henriques, Portugal's first king, was born, and from here that he launched the military campaigns that would establish the kingdom. For a time, it even served as the fledgling nation's first capital, cementing its status as the country's
ancestral home.
This exceptional history is preserved in its magnificent collection of national monuments, from the formidable 10th-century castle on the hill to the elegant Palace of the Dukes of Braganza. Yet the true charm of Guimarães is found within its UNESCO-listed historic centre: a delightful maze of cobbled lanes and picturesque plazas, where traditional balconied houses overlook bustling cafes.
With its wealth of monuments and enchanting atmosphere, Guimardes is one of the most popular and enjoyable day trips from Porto, easily reached by a direct train service. This guide will provide everything you need to discover Guimarães, helping you make the most of your visit to the birthplace of Portugal.
