One of the oldest dioceses in modern-day Portugal was founded in the 3rd century in Braga. This ancient city became the cradle of the Christianization of Northern Portugal. Besides, the oldest liturgical rite of Braga has remained unchanged since the 4th century and was officially approved by the Pope and the Vatican. Moreover, every conqueror, Visigoths, Romans, or Moors, left their mark on the monuments of Braga's sacred architecture.

In 1089, the Cathedral of Braga replaced the destroyed ancient temple of the Moors thanks to Bishop Pedro, who planned to build a cathedral of unprecedented beauty in his hometown. Today, only the old small chapel, located outside the majestic cathedral, reminds of the bishop's initial plan.

The construction of the main shrine of Braga lasted almost a hundred years before a magnificent example of Romanesque temple architecture with elements of Burgundian style opened its doors to the first parishioners. Later, the cathedral was repeatedly expanded and rebuilt. So today, tourists can enjoy a stunning combination of several styles: Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque, and, of course, Manueline, which is popular in Portugal.

The Gothic Chapel of the Kings with the tombs of Count Henry of Burgundy and his wife Theresa of Leon was built in the 14th century. It is also worth seeing the Chapel of the Glory with a carved stone sarcophagus of Archbishop Goncalo Pereira. This true masterpiece of medieval Portuguese sculpture belongs to two talented masters: Pero, who created the life-size statue of the archbishop, and Garcia, the author of the statues of the apostles, the Crucifixion, and the Virgin Mary, that adorn a huge sarcophagus. And do not forget to find the six stone lions, the silent guards of the ancient crypt. They complete the сomprehensive idea of the crypt's splendor and make a particularly strong impression on visitors.