Archiepiscopal Palace of Braga
Paço Arquiepiscopal Bracarense
The residence of Braga's archbishops from the 14th to 18th centuries, with a Baroque fountain in the square surrounded by three wings; now used by the university and a library.
The Archiepiscopal Palace is made up of three wings from different periods. The east wing is medieval (14th–15th century) and faces Santa Bárbara Garden, and the west wing is Baroque (17th–18th century). Together they enclose Largo do Paço, where the 1723 Castle Fountain stands at the center. The palace now houses the office of the rector of the University of Minho, along with the district archive and public library. The interior is generally closed to visitors, but the square and façades can be seen at any time. It is a one-minute walk from the cathedral and a must-pass point on any stroll through the Old Town.
Opening hours
Square open all day; interior generally closed to visitors
Nearby sights
- Braga Cathedral
- Santa Barbara Garden
- Rua do Souto
- Arco da Porta Nova
- Chapel of the Coimbras
- Biscainhos Palace Museum
- Keep of Braga Castle
- Church of Santa Cruz