Braganza

Braganza, commonly rendered Bragança in Portuguese, is a term used to refer to several related topics connected to Portugal and the former Portuguese empire. It can denote a geographic place, a historic royal house, and a surname or title associated with nobility.

Geography and places: Bragança is a city and municipality in northeastern Portugal, serving as the capital of Bragança District in the Norte region. Located near the Spanish border in the historical province of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, it is known for its medieval castle and well-preserved old town. The name also appears in the Bragança District and in other place names across Portuguese-speaking regions, including variations of Bragança in Brazil and other former territories.

Dynastic history: The House of Braganza (Casa de Bragança) is the Portuguese royal house that came to the throne in 1640 after the Portuguese Restoration War, with John IV of Braganza founding the modern dynasty. The house ruled Portugal until the monarchy was abolished in 1910. Its members include several monarchs who reigned over Portugal, and the title Duke of Braganza has traditionally been held by the heir to the throne.

Other uses: Braganza is also a surname and an accompanying noble designation connected with the royal house and its titles. In historical or genealogical contexts, the English form Braganza is commonly used, while Bragança is the standard spelling in Portuguese. The name thus ties together geography, dynastic history, and onomastics across Portuguese-speaking regions.