Mosteiro de Sao Martinho de Tibaes (Monastery of Sao Martinho de Tibaes), Braga

Monastery of Sao Martinho de Tibaes is located approximately 6 kilometers from Braga. The origins of the monastery date back to the 6th century during the Sueve reign of Teodomiro when it was founded by Saint Martin of Dume. It was established on the site of a former Roman villa known as Tevilanis.

In 1078, Paio Guterres da Silva, a knight, undertook the task of rebuilding the monastery. His efforts contributed to the revitalization and expansion of the religious complex, shaping its architecture and significance. In 1567, the Monastery of Sao Martinho de Tibaes became the Portuguese and Brazilian headquarters of the Order of Saint Benedict. The monastery underwent significant renovations and expansion in the 17th century, resulting in the most impressive and richly decorated monasteries in Portugal, featuring four cloisters.

The interior of the monastery boasts magnificent architectural and decorative elements, including gold-leafed carvings, retables, and Baroque adornments attributed to artists like Manuel Álvares and André Soares. The monastery is also home to a Baroque organ dating back to 1786.

The surrounding grounds of the monastery feature an 18th-century chapel dedicated to Saint Benedict. This chapel complements the grandeur of the monastery and provides a place of worship and reflection.