The Giza Pyramid complex, the Gardens of Babylon, the Temple of Artemis, and the Lighthouse of Alexandria... Even schoolchildren know the Seven Wonders of the World. Since then, many great historical and cultural landmarks have been built. So competition for the title of the New Seven Wonders of the World had to be announced again. New ratings were topped by the Colosseum, Machu Picchu, and the Taj Mahal. However, few people know that almost every country has its own Seven Wonders, which are the real pride of the local population and the most attractive tourist destinations.

The Seven Wonders of Portugal were announced simultaneously with the New Seven Wonders of the World and became popular tourist attractions in the wink of an eye. Today, everyone can visit ancient castles and towers, palaces, and monasteries, including the landmark of medieval Portuguese architecture, the Castle of Guimaraes.

The construction of the legendary castle began in the middle of the 10th century to protect against the attacks of the Arabs on land and the Normans from the ocean. Back then, the stone castle was a rather simple fortification: a single donjon in the center of a rectangular square, surrounded by an impenetrable wall. Unfortunately, only ancient ruins remained from that citadel. Henry of Burgundy and Theresa of Leon occupied its site with a new monumental castle. Later, their son Afonso I the Great gained a battle here and gave freedom to Portugal. Indeed, the future of the country was shaped, and the history of an independent state began right here, at the foot of the Castle of Guimaraes.

In the 15th century, the ancient citadel ceased to be an important defensive structure and was abandoned. However, most of the structures were preserved. Today, the castle has been completely restored and is open to the public. Four observation towers still rise above the green hills, a gate invites curious travelers to come inside, and an ancient wooden bridge, thrown over a deep moat, leads directly to the main donjon.