The Historic Center of Guimaraes, where the ancient castle, the majestic Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, and the ancient Church of Sao Miguel are located, can be called a place of power and puissance of the city, like the head of a person. And the ancient square of Largo da Oliveira (Oliveira Square) is its heart, where the pulse of this city beats and life flows, as in the main artery.

According to an ancient legend, a century-old olive tree once grew in the central square of Guimaraes right in front of the Church of Our Lady of Oliveira. At first, the tree stopped bearing fruit and then began to wither. But soon, a real miracle happened. After a sacred cross was erected on the square in 1342, the tree came to life, turned green, and bore new juicy fruit. That is when the picturesque square got its name "Largo da Oliveira." An old decrepit tree was cut down in the 19th century against the will of locals. The olive tree that adorns the square today was planted in 1985.

Throughout history, the Oliveira Square has been home to rich citizens: the nobility and the clergy. Today, it is evidenced by the magnificent architectural landmarks. They are like a valuable frame of a rare painting. The centerpiece is occupied by the ancient Collegiate Church of Our Lady of Oliveira, which was built by King John I (Joao) of Portugal in honor of the victory over John I of Castile in the Battle of Aljubarrota.

A tall Manueline bell tower adjoins the Gothic church. Even though today it all looks like a single architectural ensemble, the bell tower was added to the ancient church much later. It is definitely worth looking inside the church. Today, it houses the Alberto Sampaio Museum with a magnificent collection of Renaissance silver. The real armor of King John I is also displayed there.

There is a Gothic memorial devoted to the Battle of Tarifa and the victory of King Afonso IV over the Moors in front of the church. And the old City Hall, with its magnificent stone sculpture that personifies Guimaraes, stands on the other side of the square.