Braga Romana
By: Neha Krishna, SEAS ’26
Picture from University campus library
University of Minho Law School, Braga, Portugal
Braga Romana. A Roman revival in a Portuguese town. My Portuguese home is transformed into an ancient Roman city.
The air smells like charred wood. Roman festival music reverberates through every alley. The kids hold wooden swords
and shields and fight as the Romans once did. Vendors sell wreaths, gladiator clothing, traditional incense, and jewelry. Gladiator soldiers march down streets chanting Roman sayings and reviving ancient Rome into the town. Our small town is bustling with tourists from all over the world.
On this week, over 2000 years ago, Emperor Augustus founded the city of Braga. In commemoration of this, every year the Bracarenses, or the people of Braga, throw festivals to remember Emperor Augustus, their ancestors, and their roots.
The history of Braga is showcased in its churches, cobblestone streets, and beautiful landscapes. More importantly, however, the history of Braga is carried on through generations of festivities, storytelling, and traditions. The importance of ancestry, family, and community is the foundation of this city.
This past week, seeing the people of Braga embrace change has inspired me to immerse myself into the culture. When I see a friendly face I wave and say “Bom Dia”. When a waitress hands me my food, in return I say “Obrigada.” More importantly, it has taught me to not be fearful of change. The Bracarenses have adapted into their own culture, still celebrating their Roman heritage, while also exploring Portuguese culture. My motto here has been to do the same. While my American and Indian roots will never leave me, I’ve pushed myself to explore Portuguese and European culture. My first month in Braga has opened my eyes to the European lifestyle. I’ve traded in the hurried, frantic nature of Philadelphia for a calmer, more patient lifestyle. I wake up to church bells and roosters instead of an alarm clock. We spend afternoons exploring the college campus, meeting students, and immersing ourselves into student life. And finally, our evenings are spent roaming the streets of Braga like locals, entering small shops, eating gelato, and sitting by the garden.
It’s the simple things that have made this place feel like home. Rejoicing in the Roman traditions, together, has pulled me into the community. Learning how to speak Portuguese has connected me to amazing individuals. And exploring has led me to connect with the town in a deeper way. Braga will always have a special place in my heart.
The Global Research and Internship Program (GRIP) provides outstanding undergraduate and graduate students the opportunity to intern or conduct research abroad for 8 to 12 weeks over the summer. Participants gain career-enhancing experience and global exposure that is essential in a global workforce.