This Pousada Nossa Senhora de Oliveira is a former
manor house converted into a hotel. It is in the medieval historic centre of Guimaraes in
Portugal.
This is one of two Pousadas
in Guimaraes. The town is traditionally known as the "The cradle
of the Nation" because it was the birthplace of the first King of Portugal,
Afonso Henriques.
As befits a town of such
eminence, Guimaraes has a wealth of magnificent buildings.
Due to its location this
delightful Pousada is very much a part of the liveliness of the city.
From here you can walk through the narrow streets which lead to the Castle
and the Palace of the Dukes and uncover a little of the history of Portugal.
King Afonso Henriques was
born in the impressive 10th Century castle, and he established the first
Portuguese court here in the 12th century.
Just below the castle, the
little Romanesque Capela de Sao Miguel still celebrates mass on the king’s
birthday.
The medieval Paco dos Duques
was the residence of the royal house of Braganca in the 15th century. Extensively
restored it now houses a museum and art gallery with a fine collection
of portrait paintings.
The old town has some wonderful
medieval buildings particularly round the Largo da Oliveira, the most impressive
of which is the church of Nossa Senhora da Oliveira. Adjoining the church
the Museum Alberto Sampaio has some beautiful exhibits including a triptych
captured from the King of Castile.
Approximately 9 kms from
Guimaraes is the Celtic settlement, Citania de Briteiros. This important
archaeological site was occupied from 400 BC and consists of over 150 dwellings.
This small Pousada has been
furnished in keeping with its age and former use. It has 10 bedrooms and
6 suites all with private bathroom, air conditioning, Cable television, telephone, bathing gowns, hair dryer and minibar.
Facilities include air conditioning,
lift, bar, restaurant (currently closed), family games and parking.
The intimate dining room
overlooking the square serves a variety of dishes including traditional
Portuguese cuisine.
Nearby activities include
golf, swimming pool, horse riding, shooting range and gymnasium.
The international airport
at Porto (Oporto) is approximately 54 kilometers from this Pousada of Portugal.
The restaurant at the Pousada is currently closed.
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