A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Barcelos: The City of Portugal's Barcelos Cock

Barcelos, located in the Braga district in northern Portugal, is a city full of charm and rich in history and culture. Known for its famous Barcelos Cock, the city offers a variety of tourist attractions ranging from its impressive architecture to its vibrant scene of art and handicrafts.

The Barcelos Cock

The Barcelos Cock is one of Portugal's most recognized symbols. According to legend, a dead rooster came back to life to prove the innocence of an unjustly condemned man. Today, colorful representations of this rooster can be found throughout the country, but it is in Barcelos where the story comes to life.

The Historic Center

The historic center of Barcelos is a must-visit for any tourist. Here you can find a variety of historical buildings, from the impressive Main Church to the ancient Palace of the Dukes of Braganza. You can also visit the Archaeological Museum, which houses an extensive collection of artifacts dating back to Roman times.

The Weekly Market

Barcelos is famous for its weekly market, held every Thursday. This is one of the largest and oldest markets in Portugal, offering a wide variety of products, from fresh fruits and vegetables to clothing and local handicrafts. It's an excellent opportunity to experience local culture and purchase unique souvenirs.

The Ceramics Fair

Barcelos is also known for its ceramics, and every year the Ceramics Fair takes place. This event attracts ceramists from all over the country, who come to showcase and sell their work. It's an excellent opportunity to admire the skill and creativity of these artists and perhaps take home a unique piece.

The City Park

For those seeking some tranquility, the City Park offers an oasis of peace and quiet. With its vast green areas, walking trails, and beautiful gardens, it's the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature.

Local Gastronomy

Finally, you can't visit Barcelos without trying its local cuisine. The city is famous for its roasted chicken, but it also offers a variety of other delicious dishes, such as "bacalao à braga" and "pastéis de nata". Make sure to accompany your meal with a glass of green wine, a light and refreshing wine typical of the region.

Whether you're interested in history, art, gastronomy, or simply enjoying the beauty of the city, Barcelos has something to offer every visitor.

Gastronomic Products of Barcelos

Barcelos Rooster

The Barcelos Rooster is one of the most iconic dishes of the city. This dish consists of a young rooster cooked in a stew made with wine, garlic, and peppers. The rooster is slow-cooked until the meat is tender and full of flavor. Although the dish carries the name of the city, it doesn't use just any rooster, but one specific to the region, known for its tender and flavorful meat.
Green Wine

Barcelos is known for its production of Green Wine, a young and fresh wine made in the region. This wine is light and is often served cold, making it perfect for hot summer days. Green Wine can be white, rosé, or red, each with its own character and distinctive flavor.
Margaride's Pão-de-Ló

Margaride's Pão-de-Ló is a traditional spongecake that originates from the Barcelos region. This cake is light and airy, often served with a cup of coffee or tea. Margaride's Pão-de-Ló is especially popular during Holy Week, but it can be enjoyed at any time of the year.

Prominent Gastronomic Places in Barcelos

Barcelos, in Braga, is famous for its rich gastronomy and traditional Barcelos Rooster. Here we present some of the most prominent places to enjoy local food:

Dom Diogo Restaurant

The Dom Diogo Restaurant is one of the most popular in Barcelos. Known for its excellent Portuguese cuisine, here you can savor traditional dishes like bacalao a la braga, duck rice, and the famous Barcelos Rooster. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service make this place an ideal choice for an unforgettable meal.

Arantes Tavern

The Arantes Tavern is a charming spot with good prices. This welcoming establishment offers a wide variety of tapas and typical Portuguese dishes, such as francesinha, golden codfish, and stone soup. Additionally, its extensive wine list allows you to pair your favorite dishes with the best selection of Portuguese wines.

Pedra Furada Restaurant

Located in an old stone house, the Pedra Furada Restaurant is famous for its traditional Portuguese cuisine. Here you can enjoy dishes like roasted goat, lamprey a la Bordelaise, and seafood rice. The rustic atmosphere and excellent quality-price ratio make this place highly recommended.

Manhoso Tavern

If you're looking for an authentic spot with good prices, the Manhoso Tavern is an excellent option. This establishment offers a wide variety of typical Portuguese dishes, such as lamb stew, roasted suckling pig, and bacalao a la minhota. Furthermore, its friendly atmosphere and excellent service make this place highly recommended.

Deportes Activities en Barcelos

Soccer

Barcelos is home to the Gil Vicente Futebol Clube, a team in the Portuguese Primeira Liga. Visitors can attend a match at the Cidade de Barcelos Stadium to experience the passion of Portuguese football.

Hiking

Barcelos offers several hiking trails that allow visitors to explore its beautiful rural landscape. The Via Romana trail is particularly popular, as it follows an ancient Roman path through hills and valleys.

Cycling

The varied terrain of Barcelos makes it an ideal destination for cycling. Visitors can rent bicycles and explore the city and its surroundings, including the beautiful Atlantic coast.

Rowing

The Cávado River, which flows through Barcelos, is a popular spot for rowing. Visitors can rent a boat and enjoy a peaceful ride along the river, taking in views of the city and the surrounding nature.

Golf

For golf enthusiasts, Barcelos offers several high-quality courses. The Barcelos Golf Club is particularly popular, featuring a challenging 18-hole course and excellent facilities.

Places Near Barcelos

If you are in Barcelos and wish to explore a bit more, here are some cities and towns nearby offering unique tourist and culinary experiences:

Ponte de Lima

Ponte de Lima, in Portugal, is a historical gem with medieval charm, famous for its Roman bridge and garden festivals. Its culinary scene stands out for the "arroz de sarrabulho" and green wines, perfect for lovers of good food.

Viana do Castelo

Viana do Castelo, in Portugal, is enchanting with its rich medieval architecture and panoramic views of the Atlantic. Visitors can indulge in local cuisine, including fresh seafood dishes and the famous pastel de Viana.

Braga

Braga, Portugal, is a historical treasure with impressive monuments and vibrant nightlife. Its rich gastronomy includes delicacies like the codfish dish of Braga and green wine, making this city a paradise for food lovers.