Arouca Guided Tour

This guided exploration of Arouca invites you to immerse yourself in the architectural and historical significance of its main churches. Discover the town’s heritage and its intricate connections with the royal histories of both Spain and Portugal – an experience not to be overlooked!

Description

At a time of your choosing, we will convene at the entrance to the monastery of Arouca, recognized as the most prominent sacred site in the area. Are you prepared to delve into its fascinating past? Let’s begin!

As we savor some local sweets, we will enter the monastery to explore various areas, including the cloister, the kitchen, and the museum of sacred art. During our visit, you'll learn about the historical narratives tied to these spaces. Do you remember the name Mafalda of Portugal? This princess, married to Henry I of Castile, was instrumental in establishing this landmark in the 13th century, ultimately choosing to spend her later years as a nun within its walls. We'll discuss her tumultuous marriage and the circumstances that led to her sainthood.

This guided exploration of Arouca continues as we stroll through the historic center, bringing us to the Chapel of Mercy, which was constructed in 1612. Though modest in size, this chapel is distinguished by its exquisite paintings and religious sculptures that are sure to captivate your attention!

Our journey will then lead us to the Calvario de Arouca, a granite hill adorned with stone crosses. Here, we will uncover the history of this serene place, renowned for contemplation and reflection. We will also shed light on the traditional procession of the Fogaréus, which culminates on this very hill.

After a duration of 2.5 hours, we will conclude our exploration of Arouca atop the Calvary.