Exploring the Birthplace of Portugal: A Journey to Guimarães

Farewell, Guimarães!

Today marked the final day of our enchanting journey in Guimarães. As much as I've been looking forward to returning to Heidelberg, there's a bittersweet feeling of leaving behind this historic city. We packed our day with a blend of historical exploration and spiritual reflection, making the most of our last moments in the birthplace of Portugal.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante Mourão. I savored a final taste of Portuguese pastries while Hans enjoyed his usual strong coffee. It's funny how quickly we've both adapted to the local culinary customs. Fuelled up, we set off to the Museum of Archeology D. Diogo de Sousa, eager to delve deeper into the region's past.


Explore the Museum of Archeology D. Diogo de Sousa in Braga, a captivating journey through Portugal's ancient history and archaeological wonders.
The museum was a treasure trove of artifacts, showcasing the rich history of the area from prehistoric times to the Roman occupation. As someone fascinated by history, I found myself completely absorbed by the exhibits. Hans, ever the patient companion, also seemed genuinely interested, asking thoughtful questions and pointing out details I might have missed. I was particularly struck by a collection of Roman mosaics, their intricate patterns telling stories of a bygone era. It was incredible to see how much history was packed into this relatively small museum. I felt a connection to my own roots in Ouro Preto, another city steeped in history, even though the histories were so different. I thought of my grandfather, a history teacher, and how much he would have enjoyed this place. I made a mental note to research more about the archeological finds in this region.

Travel is more than seeing the sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living.

After immersing ourselves in history, we decided to ascend to Bom Jesus do Monte, a stunning sanctuary perched atop a hill just outside Guimarães.


Discover the serene beauty and spiritual significance of Bom Jesus do Monte, a majestic sanctuary in the heart of Portugal’s breathtaking landscape.
The funicular ride up was an experience in itself, offering panoramic views of the lush green landscape. As we climbed, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation, wondering what awaited us at the summit.

Upon reaching the top, we were greeted by the magnificent sight of the Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary. The Baroque architecture was breathtaking, with its grand staircase cascading down the hillside, adorned with sculptures and fountains. We took our time exploring the grounds, admiring the intricate details of the church and the serene atmosphere of the surrounding gardens. The air was filled with the sound of birds chirping and the gentle rustling of leaves, creating a sense of peace and tranquility. Hans and I walked hand in hand, enjoying the quiet moments of reflection.

The highlight of our visit was undoubtedly the famous Escadaria, the monumental staircase that leads up to the church. Each level of the staircase represents a different stage of the Via Sacra, the Way of the Cross, with chapels and fountains depicting scenes from the Passion of Christ. As we climbed, I couldn't help but feel moved by the artistry and devotion that went into creating this sacred space. The views from the top were simply spectacular, offering a sweeping vista of Guimarães and the surrounding countryside.

For lunch, we opted for a casual meal at Pizzaria Luzzo.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Pizzaria Luzzo in Guimarães - where every slice tells a delicious story.
After days of indulging in traditional Portuguese cuisine, a pizza seemed like a welcome change. We shared a Margherita pizza and a fresh salad, enjoying the simple pleasure of good food and good company. I couldn’t help but think about how much I missed Brazilian pizza; I'll have to try making one when we get back to Heidelberg.

In the late afternoon, we decided to explore a bit more of Guimarães' nightlife, venturing into El Rock Bar for a pre-dinner drink.


El Rock Bar: A lively bar in Guimarães offering great drinks, live music, and an inviting atmosphere for all travelers.
The bar had a cool, laid-back vibe, with rock music playing in the background and a friendly crowd of locals and tourists mingling together. I ordered a glass of local wine, while Hans opted for a Portuguese beer. We toasted to our wonderful trip, reminiscing about our favorite moments and experiences. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

Our final dinner in Guimarães was at Restaurante 7 Maravilhas - Espaço Gourmet | Eventos.


Discover exquisite dining at Restaurante 7 Maravilhas in Guimarães – where local flavors meet elegant event spaces.
We chose this restaurant for its reputation for innovative cuisine and elegant ambiance. The meal was a culinary delight, with each dish beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. I savored every bite, knowing that it would be a while before I tasted such authentic Portuguese flavors again. Hans and I shared a bottle of vinho verde, a local specialty, and toasted to our unforgettable adventure in Guimarães. We talked about our plans for future travels, dreaming of new destinations and experiences. I am excited to return to Heidelberg, and maybe try some of the new recipes I’ve learned here.

As we walked back to Hotel De Guimaraes,


Experience modern luxury at Hotel De Guimaraes with top-notch amenities, ideal location, and incredible dining options for all travelers.
I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to explore this beautiful city. Guimarães had exceeded all my expectations, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. I felt a deep connection to the city, its people, and its heritage. I knew that I would carry the memories of this trip with me for years to come. Thinking back to Ouro Preto, I realized that the heart of a city lies not just in its monuments, but in the stories and spirit of its people.

Tomorrow, we will make our way back to Porto and then fly back to Frankfurt. It's always a mix of emotions when a trip comes to an end – a longing for home and the familiar, but also a deep appreciation for the new experiences and perspectives gained. This trip to Guimarães has been a wonderful chapter in our travelogue, and I can't wait to share more adventures with you all soon!

Until next time, keep exploring!