Praça da República, Braga

As with other squares with the same name, Praça da República continues the Portuguese tradition of being one of the most important public spaces in Braga. Located on the western side of the city's historic center, it comes alive every day from mid-morning until late in the evening. During this time, it is filled with locals who come to enjoy a bite to eat at the cafes and restaurants that line the square, including Café Vianna and Café Astória, both of which have been serving customers for around 150 years. Others simply come expecting to bump into friends and family.

A cultural significance of the city.

At the heart of Portugal's oldest city, Braga, lies a charming and historic square, Praça da República. Often referred to as "Arcada" by locals, this bustling hub is more than just a meeting place for tourists and residents alike; it is a testament to the city's living history and cultural significance.Historical SignificancePraça da República has been an important part of Braga since the city's beginnings in the Roman era, when it was called Bracara Augusta. Its name has changed over time, reflecting the different eras of Portuguese history. The square was formerly called Campo das Hortas because it was near vegetable gardens (hortas), and was then renamed Praça Nova (New Square) in 1715 after undergoing significant architectural changes.