On a hill outside the town of Guimaraes, the Hotel Pousada Santa Marinha is situated in a 17th century Augustinian convent. Considered one of the best Pousadas, the renovated building was awarded the coveted Europa Nostra prize for its restoration. Guimaraes, "The cradle of the Nation" is the birthplace of the first king of Portugal, Afonso Henriques, and was the first capital of Portugal. As befits a town of such eminence, Guimaraes has a wealth of magnificent buildings. King Afonso Henriques was born in the impressive 10th century castle, and he established the first Portuguese court here in the 12th century. Just below the castle, the little Romanesque Capela de Sao Miguel still celebrates mass on the king's birthday. The medieval Paco dos Duques was the residence of the royal house of Braganca in the 15th century. Extensively restored, it now houses a museum and an art gallery with a fine collection of portrait paintings. The old town has some wonderful medieval buildings particularly round the Largo da Oliveira, the most impressive of which is the church of Nossa Senhora da Oliveira. Adjoining the church the Museum Alberto Sampaio has some beautiful exhibits including a triptych captured from the king of Castile. Approximately 9 kms. from Guimaraes is the Celtic settlement, Citania de Briteiros. This important archaeological site was occupied from 400 B. C. and consists of over 150 dwellings. The stunning Pousada Santa Marinha, has luxuriously furnished rooms, vaulted ceilings and azulejos in abundance. Stroll in the beautiful gardens and enjoy fine cuisine in one of the three dining rooms. Pousada Santa Marinha has 49 rooms and 2 suites, all with private bathroom. Not all rooms have air conditioning. The Pousada has a lift and conference facilites. In the nearby area, activities such as horse riding, cycling, four wheel driving, paintballing and microlighting can be arranged.
