The Duke of Braganza has always been one of the most important titles in Portugal. The heirs to the Portuguese throne simultaneously inherited this title. This tradition started with the first duke, who was the crown prince, the son of King John I. The rich and powerful dukes owned entire cities, ancient castles and palaces, including the famous palace in Guimaraes.

The luxurious Palace of the Dukes of Braganza was founded at the beginning of the 15th century by King Afonso I, the founder of the most powerful dynasty in Portugal. Later, his descendants became Portuguese kings, Brazilian emperors, high-ranking officials, and nobles. Unfortunately, the dukes left their residence a few years later, and the palace began to fall into disrepair. For more than three centuries, the future of the Portuguese palace hung on by a thread, as the building could collapse. Only in 1910, the palace was declared a National Monument of Portugal, and thorough restoration began. Thanks to this decision, modern travelers can still enjoy the magnificent architectural monument.

In 1959, the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza was opened to the public. Today, it is a grand rectangular structure with a spacious courtyard and a small palatial chapel. As a rule, visitors are especially impressed by the granite facades and the Flemish stained-glass windows of this building. At first glance, the palace seems gray and dull. But wait until you get inside: there are cold granite walls softened by the wooden ceilings and floors and a cozy atmosphere created by fireplaces in the Banquet Hall and the Hall of Lost Steps. Today, most of the halls are part of a historical museum with an amazing collection of the Pastrana tapestries, Portuguese porcelain, medieval weapons, and antique furniture of the 17th and 18th centuries. The unique tapestries of the great Flemish artist Peter Paul Rubens are considered the gem of the palace, attracting art lovers to Guimaraes.