Arch of Porta Nova

Location

The Arco da Porta Nova is located in the parish of Braga, city and municipality of Braga, in Portugal.

National Monument

It has been classified as a National Monument since 1910.

History

The arch was one of the gates in the old city walls, built in 1512 during the period of the Archbishop of Braga, D. Diogo de Sousa. Its current appearance dates back to 1772, when Archbishop D. Gaspar de Bragança, in a historical moment when the city was expanding beyond the walls, commissioned the project to the Braga architect André Soares.

Medieval Tower

Next to the arch, there is a medieval tower that belonged to the old Fernandina wall. The tower is practically hidden by modern buildings. The entrance to the tower is through the Image Museum.

Curiosities

The inhabitants of Braga are known for leaving their doors open, giving rise to the expression "És de Braga?" (Are you from Braga?). There are several theories for this tradition. One of them is that the Arco da Porta Nova never had a door, because at that time the city was already at peace and expanding beyond the walls, and there was no need for doors in the arch. Thus, the people of Braga became known as those who do not close their doors. Another theory relates to the community spirit of the inhabitants of Braga, who left their doors open so that their neighbors could enter at any time.

Legend of the wise man of Braga

There is a legend that speaks of a wise old man from Braga who used to visit people's homes to give advice. He asked people to leave their doors open, as the houses were dark and gloomy, and so he could easily enter to help them.