"The craddle of the nation" a Guimarães Travel Page by bambino36

Send Photo to a Friend

D. Afonso Henriques, the first King of Portugal

Although essentially a mediaeval town, Guimarães has its origins in the distant 10th century.
The city is, in fact, where Portugal made its first steps.
Birthplace of King Afonso Henriques and first capital of medieval Portucale, the town's main attraction is the Castle, that became the stronghold Afonso Henriques. From here the Reconquest began along with the creation of a kingdom which, within a century of Afonso's death, was to stretch to its present borders.
Walking through the historical center one can experience history written in every stone. Every street needs a really long and deep look. Narrow streets, medieval houses with wooden balconies and history in the city that saw Portugal's birth, with plagues and witches mixed together.