The Arch of Souto Street (Arco da Rua do Souto) was opened in the wall that surrounds Braga in the beginning of the XVI century, by order of the Bishop D. Diogo de Sousa.
Known as New Door (Porta Nova), it’s located at the top of one of the most relevant arteries of the city, the Souto Street or commerce street. However, the arch that we know today acquired its configuration only in the XVIII century.
The round arch is composed of particular elements of Soares’ works performed in mid XVIII century. If André Soares’ works, imprinted at Braga a late baroque and rococo mark, the Arch of Souto Street (Arco da Rua do Souto) must be seen as one of his most significant urban interventions.
Anyway, this monument testifies not only for the relevant religious patronage in the city known by its archbishops but also the announcement of a new artistic period – the neoclassicism -, that would impose itself on the work of Carlos Amarante.
