Come and discover where and how one of the most traditional symbols and legends of Portugal, the Barcelos Rooster, was born, through a private tour to the city of Barcelos itself that will leave you fascinated. A city well-known to the Portuguese but a mystery to most of the world.
- Uncover the history of the famous national symbol of the 'Barcelos Rooster' through a visit to its birthplace: Barcelos.
- Explore the best attractions, such as the Medieval Tower, the Church of Santa Maria Maior, and the Paço dos Condes de Barcelos.
- Stroll through the charming streets of the city, where you can glimpse traditional architecture, picturesque squares, and local craft shops.
Your pick-up will be made by your specialized guide at the door of your accommodation, thus beginning your half-day private tour to Barcelos. Among other things, you will get to know one of the landmarks on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela.
After crossing the ancient Gothic bridge over the Cávado River and with the sharing of some historical curiosities told by your guide, we will arrive at our destination. Once in this city, we will take a guided walking tour, where you can admire the sensational historic center.
Right from the start, we will begin to see the "crosses," where the surrounding parishes are represented, each with its patron saint. Delight in this medieval town in Minho, where you will have the opportunity to visit the Medieval Tower. The tower was formerly known as one of the three entrances to the fortified and walled city and is currently seen as the only one that remains intact to this day. It is also called the Torre da Porta Nova due to recent renovations. From the top of the tower, you can observe the panoramic landscape of the city and the colorful Jardim das Barrocas.
Pottery is a popular and traditional art in the region, and you will find various statues scattered throughout the city. You can also visit the Pottery Museum to learn more. Take the opportunity to taste typical pastries such as queijadinhas or sonhos.
As the Barcelos Rooster is the strongest symbol of identity in the city, you will see various colorful sculptures in different parts of the city. This includes the "Pop Galo" (if it is not on display in another country), a monumental work of art by artist Joana Vasconcelos – and learn about the myth and history behind this national and international symbol. Did you know that the iconography of the Barcelos Rooster served as inspiration for the logo of the famous Nando's restaurant chain?
We will visit one of the most well-known religious monuments in this city – the Church of Santa Maria Maior (Matriz) – whose initial Romanesque architecture on the exterior has also been combined with some characteristics of Gothic architecture. Inside the church, you will notice a stunning tile covering that contrasts with the medieval ambiance of this Catholic building.
Let yourself be captivated by the ruins of the Paço dos Condes de Barcelos, a historical monument from the 15th century with much to unveil as it has transitioned from a castle to an archaeological museum in present times. Explore the meaning of the numerous exhibited pieces that date back to prehistoric times and will take you on a journey through the historical and significant moments of Portugal.
Upon our return from this tour to Minho, we will conclude our journey at your accommodation in Porto.
All services comply with our Sustainability Code. In addition, this activity:
- The use of printed material is avoided. Does not require the printing of documentation.
- No single-use plastics are used.
- The activity fosters local production.
- It fosters local job creation.
- It has a gender equality policy.
- The activity helps vulnerable groups, learn more about our social cause LivingTourians with 1x1 Cause.
- The order of the visits may vary depending on the availability of access times.
Frequently asked questions
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To book this activity, choose the desired date and complete the form. Confirmation is immediate.
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This activity does not require a minimum number of participants.
- Pick up at your hotel in hotels and accommodation units in the center of Porto and Vila nova de Gaia.
- You can also be picked up at a private address other than hotels in the center of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia (the cities of Matosinhos are outside the search limits).
- Please contact us with the name of your hotel/address if you cannot enter it during the checkout step.
