It is undeniable that the history of Portugal is reflected in the various monuments that are spread throughout the country, including the islands. In this article, we highlight four but in reality, the list could be extended much more.

So, get to know those who, for us, mark the architectural history of Portugal.

 

Jerónimos Monastery (Belém)

 

A living image of Manueline architecture, the Jerónimos Monastery was built in the time of King Manuel I, shortly after Vasco da Gama returned from his journey from India. It survived the 1755 earthquake but was later damaged by invading French troops sent by Napoleon Bonaparte (early 19th century).

When visiting this monument, it is possible to appreciate the various decorative elements, full of symbolism related to the art of navigation, sculptures of exotic plants and animals.

 

Palácio da Bolsa – Stock Exchange Palace (Porto)

via Palácio da Bolsa [/caption]

 

Further north, we find the Palácio da Bolsa. As the headquarters and property of the Porto Commercial Association – Porto Chamber of Commerce and Industry, it is undoubtedly one of the region’s tourist attractions.

Considered a National Monument and located in an area classified by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, it mixes different architectural styles. Its traces of nineteenth-century neoclassical architecture, Tuscan architecture and English Neo-Palladian architecture give Palácio da Bolsa a unique magnificence.

 

Convent of Christ (Tomar)

via Convento de Cristo [/caption]

 

The Convent of Christ, in Tomar, belonged to the Order of the Templars. It was founded in 1162 by the Grand Master of the Templars, Dom Gualdim Pais, and it still preserves memories of these monks.

Located in the city of Tomar, it is one of the most emblematic monuments and tourist assets in the region, reflecting the peninsular and European architecture. Its buildings and its rustic domain total an area close to forty-five hectares.

 

Sé de Braga (Braga)

 

We could not fail to highlight one of the main monuments in the city where the Castro Group headquarters are located.

This time, the Sé de Braga deserves our attention given its architectural styles. If you visit it, you will see the Romanesque style, with thick and robust walls, the interior of the Cathedral having three naves (one central and two lateral), a transept and a chevet with the apse surrounded by two apses.

On the other hand, and under the responsibility of the master João de Castilho, a Gothic-style headboard was built that is still present in the cathedral today. Thus, and inside the church, the front of the main altar also presents these features.

Last but not least, the Baroque style, visible in the gilded carvings and the well-crafted wood. The two huge organs near the entrance and at the level of the high choir reflect the importance that Baroque had in Braga’s Cathedral.

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