Arouca Guided Tour

This guided tour of Arouca will take us to the most significant churches in the town, exploring its historical connections with the monarchies of Spain and Portugal.

Description

We will meet at the entrance of the monastery of Arouca at a time of your choice. During this tour, we will sample some sweets and enter the monastery to see significant areas including the cloister, kitchen, and museum of sacred art. We will discuss the history of this location, including the story of Mafalda of Portugal, whose contributions in the 13th century were pivotal to the monastery's founding as she ultimately lived there as a nun. Details of her marriage and canonization will also be shared.

The guided tour continues into the historic centre until we arrive at the Chapel of Mercy, constructed in 1612. This small church is notable for its high-quality paintings and religious sculptures.

Next, we will visit the Calvario de Arouca, a granite mountain with stone crosses, where we will explain its history and relevance for reflection. We will also cover the procession of the Fogaréus, which culminates at this site.

The tour of Arouca will conclude after 2.5 hours at the Calvary.