Braga (ancient Bracara Augusta), town, northwestern Portugal, in Braga District, near Porto (Oporto). It is an archiepiscopal see and an industrial center, with plants engaged in the manufacture of hats, firearms, cutlery, textiles, and gold and silver articles. Points of interest include the ruins of a Roman temple, amphitheater, and aqueduct. The cathedral, built in the 12th century, contains relics relating to the early history of Portugal. Count Henry of Burgundy, father of the first king of Portugal, Afonso I, is buried in the cathedral. The palace of the archbishop contains a notable library. Standing on a neighboring hill is the Church of Dom Jesus do Monte, where thousands of pilgrims gather at Whitsuntide.
Braga was originally the capital of the Bracarenses, a Celtic tribe, and was later held successively by the Romans, Suevi, Visigoths, and Moors. Ferdinand I, king of Castile and León, expelled the Moors in the 11th century. The rulers of Portugal resided in Braga from 1093 to 1147. Population (1981) 63,033.Microsoft® Encarta® Online Encyclopedia 2001
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