Braga

Braga, city (1991 est. pop. 86,316), capital of Braga dist., NW Portugal, in Minho. It is an agricultural trade center that produces electronics, textiles, and firearms. The ancient Bracara Augusta, it had considerable importance in Roman days, but was of much more importance in the Middle Ages as the see of the bishop of Braga, who rivaled the bishop of Toledo in power. As the seat of Portugal's titular primate, the city is still a religious center. In the old cathedral is the tomb of Henry of Burgundy. Nearby is the well-known pilgrimage site of Bom Jesus doMonte.

The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copyright © 2007, Columbia University Press. All rights reserved.

• • Cite
  • Print