Illustrated Postcards: Portalegre and Bragança

The Sé de Portalegre was built by the initiative of João III de Portugal.
With a design by Afonso Álvares, construction began in 1556. Its last stone, the closing of the vault, was placed in 1575. Its first bishop was Dom Julião.

The "Paço do Concelho" building dates from the Philippine Dynasty in 1634. Special attention should be given to the wrought iron on the balconies of the windows. The Industrial School was founded in 1884.

George Robinson, who gives his name to this avenue, was an industrialist born in York County, England, who immigrated to Portalegre in 1848. He bought the small Thomas Reynolds factory, which under the name of Robinson became the largest manufacturing unit in Portalegre.

Partial view of Portalegre.

In the foreground we see the Fábrica Real. This building is currently part of the historic heritage of Portalegre. The Royal Wool Factory was created by Marquês de Pombal. The region was one of the largest wool traders.

General view of Bragança. At the top you can see the Castle of Bragança.

"Paço do concelho" is a traditional denomination of buildings where the local administration of each of the Portuguese municipalities was based, as well as the city council.