Palace of the Dukes of Braganza
The Ducal Palace of the Braganza or Palace of the Dukes of Braganza is a medieval estate and former residence of the first Dukes of Braganza, located in the historical centre of Guimarães, in the north-western part of Portugal.
Aerial view of the Palace
An engraving showing the ruins of the Paços dos Duques de Bragança
The Terreiro da Misericórdia, showing the shadowy figure of the Palace in the background (right)
The front façade of the Palace, with its main gate
The title Duke of Braganza in the House of Braganza is one of the most important titles in the peerage of Portugal. Starting in 1640, when the House of Braganza acceded to the throne of Portugal, the male heir of the Portuguese Crown were known as Duke of Braganza, along with their style Prince of Beira or Prince of Brazil. The tradition of the heir to the throne being titled Duke of Braganza was revived by various pretenders after the establishment of the Portuguese Republic on 5 October 1910 to signify their claims to the throne.
Palace of the Dukes of Braganza