Portugal Pictures

Braga as seen from one of Portugal's major pilgrimage destinations, Bom Jesus do Monte church.

Braga has been the religious centre of Portugal since the 6th century and it shows - 35 churches at the last count and Bom Jesus, just to the east, is a popular target for pilgrims, with its baroque approach stairs featuring stations of the cross. Fervent christians often climb the stairs on their knees, but tourists have a more comfortable option - an ancient water powered funicular [tram] that's been ferrying visitors since 1882.

Braga is hardly a must-see for travellers save for festival time, particularly around Easter when things get very colourful. The Thursday before Easter, for example, a torch lit procession of barefoot penitents in Inquisition-style hoods tour the town.

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