Hospital de São Marcos, Religious and medical complex in Braga, Portugal.
Hospital de São Marcos is a religious and medical complex in Braga featuring a symmetrical Baroque facade with two bell towers and apostle statues along its balustrade. The structure combines hospital and church functions within a single architectural ensemble located in the city center.
The complex originated from a 12th-century Templar hostel and convent built on an ancient hermitage. The hospital was later founded by Diogo de Sousa, who established it as a place of religious significance.
Eight stone statues depicting martyrs and apostles decorate the facade and were created by Carlos Amarante. These figures are a defining visual element of the building.
The complex sits near Campo de S. João and Praça da República in central Braga and is easy to reach on foot. The exterior is visible from the street, and visitors can access parts of the interior to see the main chapel and reliquaries.
The main chapel holds the tomb of Diogo de Sousa, the founder, while also preserving the relics of Saint Mark. This connection between the founder and the venerated saint gives the space a layered spiritual meaning.
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