Surrounded by such majestic monuments of Portuguese architecture as the Archiepiscopal Palace and Se Cathedral, the medieval Church of Mercy (Misericordia) modestly bears the name of the main pearl of the religious capital of Portugal. One of Braga's main attractions has been towering over the picturesque buildings of this ancient city since 1562. Today, it is known as one of the brightest examples of Renaissance architecture.

Despite the many changes that the ancient building has undergone over almost five centuries, the church still has its original appearance, which greatly impresses all visitors and parishioners. Tourists especially like the magnificent stone facade of the building, made by the talented Portuguese master Manuel Luis in the style of Mannerism. Tall columns and spacious semicircular windows are decorated with fantastic sculptures in the Flemish style, and the central entrance is adorned with elegant stone carvings and the coat of arms of the monastic Brotherhood of Mercy. Another remarkable detail is the side portal, the upper part of which is decorated with scenes from the life of Jesus Christ and the sculptural composition "The Visit of the Virgin Mary to St. Elizabeth" by the masters of Coimbra, dating from the 15th-16th centuries.

While enjoying the beauty and grandeur of the church, do not forget to come inside and see its treasures: the vaulted ceiling with paintings and gilded rosettes, and the magnificent altar in the Baroque style, made by Marcelino de Araujo in the middle of the 18th century. Along with images of saints, the walls of the church are adorned with secular portraits of the royal relatives of John V and scenes from court life. The hallmark of the church is the sacred icon of the Merciful Virgin Mary by the famous painter of the late 18th century, Juan Antonio Gonzalez.

Once, this church was just a nondescript extension of the majestic Braga Cathedral. But having stood the test of time, the Church of Mercy became an independent and noteworthy symbol of the city, visited by hundreds of tourists daily.