South of Coimbra (A 15 minute drive away) Cominbriga founded during the Bronze Age and restored during the Cesar Augustus period, the ruins are very well preserved, the gardens are still watered using the original sprinklers! The mosaics are fabulous keeping with the motif and primitive colors, near the ruins it is possible to visit the archeological museum to better understand this important culture.

This is the most beautifully preserved living museum for Roman art connoisseurs to visit while in Portugal!

In the 15th century King João II ordered construction of the little chapel in honor of the Virgin da Pena. One century after King Manuel I ordered the construction of a small convent for the religious order of Saint Hieronimus (18 monks), and abandoned after the 1755 earthquake.

19th century Ferdinand of Sax Coburg Gota (king consort of Portugal) decide to build his summer Palace (over the convent ruins), the contracted architect, a German baron (probably) inspired by the German castles and the romantic movement of late 1800’s resulted in a very unique complex.

Since the end of monarchy in 1910 the place is now a museum open for visitors, and is now the most visited place in Portugal,

Probably the oldest catholic pilgrimage place in Europe this old town with the oldest cathedral (romanesc/gothic) in Iberia peninsula 1 hour 30 minutes buy car from the Portuguese Oporto city is one of most visited sites out of Portugal of my clients!

BRACARA AUGUSTA, in honor of the Roman imperator, Cesar Augusto. This is the capital of Minho, north province of Portugal and the third most import in the country. The Cathedral is the oldest in the country funded before the nationality.The habitants of this region are in general strong Roman Catholic, churches and sanctuaries are evry conners.

This beautiful little village 40 minutes south of Lisbon is where these fine Portuguese products are found.

My private wine tours include one or two wine cellars Bacalhoa (wine and art) and José Maria Fonseca the famous Moscatel wine cellar (tastings available) Azeitao is a well known handmade tile factory where visitors are welcome. Learn how tile is made, stop at cafe Negrito and taste the famous Azeitao sheep cheese and Tortas (the local sweets).Mauricio Rodrigues