Dawn Berkoski

Unlike the ruins of Guimarea Castle, the 15th century Palace of the Dukes of Braganca was restored in the early 1900’s. Most of the art and furnishings are from a later period, around the 17th century, but they fit perfectly. I fell in love with a wall length tapestry depicting a fierce battle raging around the castle. Horses and riders leapt from between the rich weaves. I felt like I was in the middle of a siege.

The courtyard was the main star, with many beautiful arches and columns. One elaborate archway led to a chapel. And inside the chapel, stained glass glimmered under chandeliers, drawing my eye towards the heavens and the towering ceilings and stunning wood beams.

As I left the palace, I spotted the powerful bronze statue of the first king of Portugal, D. Afonso Henriques, looming over the road with his sword and shield. The green patina on the statue reminded me that I hadn’t seen any green doors inside the palace. A sense of relief swept over me. This was proof that the green doors weren’t following me around Portugal like some bizarre haunting. It was all a figment of my imagination. The spell had been broken. So why did I feel a sense of loss?

I headed down the hill towards the historic town, enjoying the gorgeous weather and pleased by what I’d found. I dreamed of moving to Portugal. Everyone was so kind and friendly. And that’s when I noticed a building to my left with an interesting tower. Curious, I was drawn over. Was it was part of the historic complex?

Unfortunately, I never found out. My body froze. My thoughts spiraled. It was just there, that green door. Not demanding my attention, not asking a thing. It was disquieting. And yet this symbol had become a familiar marker on my journey, a guidepost, a part of me, settling so completely, nesting in my soul.

Dawn B~