The Enchanting Fortress of Bragança

• HelloOlá
  [oh-lah]
• GoodbyeAdeus
  [ah-deh-oos]
• YesSim
  [seem]
• NoNão
  [now]
• Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [por fah-vohr/deh nah-dah]
• Thank youObrigado
  [oh-bree-gah-doo]
• Excuse me/SorryCom licença/Desculpe
  [kohm leh-sen-sah/deh-skool-peh]
• How are you?Como estás?
  [koh-moo ehs-tahsh]
• Fine. And you?Estou bem. E tu?
  [eh-stoh beyn/eh too]
• Do you speak English?Falas inglês?
  [fah-lahsh een-glehsh]
• I don't understandNão entendo
  [now ehn-tehn-doo]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseGostaria de ver o menu, por favor
  [goh-stah-ree-ah deh vehr oo meh-noo/por fah-vohr]
• I don't eat meatNão como carne
  [now koh-moo kahr-neh]
• Cheers!Saúde!
  [sow-deh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseGostaria de pagar, por favor
  [goh-stah-ree-ah deh pah-gahr/por fah-vohr]

• Help!Socorro!
  [soh-koh-roh]
• Go away!Vai embora!
  [vah-ee ehn-boh-rah]
• Call the Police!Chama a polícia!
  [shah-mah ah poh-lee-see-ah]
• Call a doctor!Chama um médico!
  [shah-mah oom meh-dee-koo]
• I'm lostEstou perdido
  [eh-stoh pehr-dee-doo]
• I'm illEstou doente
  [eh-stoh doo-ehn-teh]

• I'd like to buy...Gostaria de comprar...
  [goh-stah-ree-ah deh kohm-prahr]
• I'm just lookingEstou só a ver
  [eh-stoh soh ah vehr]
• How much is it?Quanto custa?
  [kwahn-toh koos-tah]
• That's too expensiveIsso é muito caro
  [ee-soo eh mwee-toh kahr-oo]
• Can you lower the price?Pode baixar o preço?
  [poh-deh bahy-shahr oo preh-soo]

• What time is it?Que horas são?
  [keh oh-rahsh sahoh]
• It's one o'clockÉ uma hora
  [eh oo-mah oh-rah]
• Half past (10)Meia (10)
  [meh-yah/deh-zeh]
• MorningManhã
  [mah-nyah]
• AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
• EveningNoite
  [noy-teh]
• YesterdayOntem
  [ohn-tehm]
• TodayHoje
  [oh-zheh]
• TomorrowAmanhã
  [ah-mah-nyah]
• 1Um
  [oom]
• 2Dois
  [doh-eesh]
• 3Três
  [trehsh]
• 4Quatro
  [kwah-troh]
• 5Cinco
  [seen-koh]
• 6Seis
  [saysh]
• 7Sete
  [seh-teh]
• 8Oito
  [oy-toh]
• 9Nove
  [noh-veh]
• 10Dez
  [dehsh]

• Where's a/the...?Onde fica o/a...?
  [ohn-deh fee-kah oo/ah]
• What's the address?Qual é a morada?
  [kwahl eh ah moh-rah-dah]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Pode mostrar-me (no mapa)?
  [poh-deh moh-shtr-meh/noo mah-pah]
• When's the next (bus)?Quando é o próximo (autocarro)?
  [kwahn-doo eh oo proh-ksee-moh/ow-toh-kah-roo]
• A ticket (to ....)Um bilhete (para ....)
  [oom bee-lyeh-teh/pah-rah]

Bragança, located in the northeastern part of Portugal, has roots stretching back to pre-Roman times. Originally inhabited by Celtic tribes, it became an important Roman settlement known as Brigantia. The town's strategic location made it a key military and trading post during Roman rule.

In the 12th century, Bragança gained prominence with the establishment of its castle under the reign of King Sancho I. The Castle of Bragança, complete with imposing walls and a keep, served as a defensive stronghold against Moorish invasions and later conflicts.

The House of Braganza, one of the most important dynasties in Portuguese history, was established in the early 15th century. The Dukes of Braganza played a significant role in Portuguese politics, eventually ascending to the throne in 1640 during the Portuguese Restoration War, marking the end of Spanish rule.

During the Renaissance and Baroque periods, Bragança flourished culturally and architecturally. The city saw the construction of several notable buildings, including the Domus Municipalis, an example of Romanesque civic architecture, and various churches that blend Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.

Bragança played a critical role during the Peninsular War (1807-1814), serving as a base for Portuguese and allied forces against Napoleonic invasions. The city's strategic location made it a focal point for military planning and logistics.

In the 20th century, Bragança witnessed significant social and economic changes. The development of infrastructure, including roads and railways, helped integrate the city more fully into the national economy. The establishment of educational institutions and cultural centers further enriched the city's cultural life.

Today, Bragança is a vibrant city that embraces its historical heritage while looking towards the future. The city boasts numerous museums, cultural sites, and annual festivals that celebrate its rich history. The preservation of historical sites and the promotion of local traditions continue to attract visitors from around the world.

Bragança is located in the northeastern region of Portugal. The nearest major airport is Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport in Porto, approximately 220 kilometers away. From Porto, you can take a bus or rent a car to reach Bragança. The journey by road typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours. There are also bus services from other major cities like Lisbon and Coimbra, making it relatively easy to reach Bragança from various parts of Portugal.

Bragança is a compact city, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, local taxis are readily available and relatively affordable. There is also a public bus system that connects different parts of the city and nearby villages. Renting a car can be a convenient option if you plan to explore the surrounding areas and natural parks at your own pace.

The official currency in Portugal is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller establishments or rural areas. ATMs are available throughout Bragança, making it easy to withdraw cash as needed.

Bragança is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any city, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Bragança, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Bragança. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the city where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your head when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A smile and a polite 'Bom dia' (Good day) are appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Bragança like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Portuguese goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Bragança Castle and the Domus Municipalis, which is one of the oldest and most unique town halls in Portugal. For a unique experience, take a walk along the scenic Fervença River and enjoy the natural beauty of the Montesinho Natural Park.