Guimaraes is a small but hugely popular town with much of its medieval architecture still intact. With a population of barely 10,000, its numbers are swelled during the summer by thousands of visitors to wander its narrow streets and sit in its charming squares.
ACCOMODATION:
One of Portugal's tourist traps, accommodation is extensive though most of it is away from the cramped town centre. There are old inns in the heart of the medieval area but these are some of the more expensive around though several are converted from ancient merchants houses.
PLACES OF INTEREST:
Historical Centre: Dominated by a huge number of churches including the famous Covento de Nossa Senhora da Oliveira. Close by the delightful square, Praca de Sao Tiago has kept its medieval charm with its old timber-built houses with wide overhanging roofs.
Castle: Built in the 10th century north of the present-day old town to protect the monastery, it was reinforced in the 15ht century. Though not in use now, it boasts spectacular views of the surrounding countryside from its ramparts.
Paco dos Duques de Braganca: The palace was built in the 15ht century by the first Duke of Braganca and became one of the most sumptuous dwellings in the whole country. After its abandonment little more than a century later, the palace was eventually restored in 1933.
Museu Alberto Sampaio: Housed in 13th century Romanesque cloisters, this tranquil setting boasts medieval religious statues and modern painting and sculptures in equal measure.
LOCAL DELICACIES:
Though many kilometres from the coast, the city boasts some excellent restaurants serving local fish delicacies. These include cod with rice as well as goat kid roasted in a wood fire. A popular dessert is aletria made from vermicelli and milk.
TO THE STADIUM:
The refurbished Dom Afonso Henriques Stadium increased its capacity to 30,000 for these finals and made its international bow in its present last September when Portugal hosted a friendly against neighbours Spain. The stadium is situated south of the city in the industrial area and is the home of the Vitoria Sport Club.
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