Barcelos
Barcelos, Braga
Barcelos is known as the birthplace of Portugal’s unofficial symbol—the Rooster of Barcelos (Galo de Barcelos). You’ll find ceramic versions of the rooster throughout the city, celebrating its legend and the city’s heritage as a home for artisans. Many travelers come to Barcelos on half-day and full-day trips from Porto or Braga to see the medieval architecture and visit handicraft centers and street markets.
The basics
The charm of this walled medieval city unfolds more than 850 years of documented history. Stroll around Barcelos’ historic center and visit the Nossa Senhora do Terço church to see its panels of azulejo tiles, traditional art at Torre Medieval, and the historic fairground, Campo da Feira.
Barcelos is known for its strong traditions of handicrafts, especially ceramics. If you can, time your visit for the enormous, vibrant Thursday market in the historic center, which draws in tourists from all around the region to browse locally produced ceramics, handcrafts, and other goods.
Things to know before you go
A walking tour of Barcelos will take you past baroque and Gothic architecture.
Visit on Thursday to attend the weekly market in Campo da Feira. It’s the largest handicraft fair in Portugal.
Take a trip to the Museum of Pottery (Museu de Olaria) to discover Portugal’s ceramics and pottery legacy, and especially the arts and crafts produced in the Minho region.
How to get there
Barcelos is located just 38 miles (61 kilometers) north of Porto. You can easily reach this town by driving the A28 route northward, or by taking public transportation via the Linha de Braga line and R3111 train. You can also pair a visit to Barcelos with other destinations on a half-day or full-day tour. Many operators offer transportations and guided visits from Porto and Braga.
When to get there
The best time to visit this picturesque city is during the spring months of March to May or the fall months of September to November. The temperatures during these seasons are mild and comfortable, making them ideal times for sightseeing outdoors. However, many people choose to visit in the summer, when the hot temperatures in Portugal bring people from all over Europe to bask in the sun.
The legend of the Rooster of Barcelos
When traveling in Barcelos—and elsewhere in Portugal—you’ll see a lot of rooster imagery. According to 15th century lore, a traveler once was accused of a crime he didn't commit. As he awaited his execution, he prayed for a miracle and a rooster appeared. He exclaimed aloud, “If I am innocent, the rooster will crow three times!” And then, the rooster crowed, saving the man’s life and becoming a Barcelos icon.
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