Category: Religious Architecture > Cathedral
District: Coimbra > Coimbra > Coimbra > Almedina
Situated in the upper part of the city of Coimbra, in the heart of the historic Almedina, the Old Cathedral (Sé Velha) stands majestically, marking the urban landscape with its centuries-old presence. Its strategic position in the city's oldest fabric allows one to understand the importance it once held as a nerve center of religious and social life.
The site, surrounded by narrow, historic alleyways, conveys a sense of antiquity and solidity, inviting an immersive experience into Coimbra's past.
The construction of Coimbra's Old Cathedral began in the 12th century, around 1162, under the patronage of D. Afonso Henriques, the first king of Portugal, and Bishop D. Miguel Salomão. Its construction marked a period of consolidation of the kingdom and affirmation of the Christian faith following the Reconquista, replacing the old mosque that once stood on the site.
This building was the stage for crucial moments in Portuguese history, including the acclamation of D. João I as king in 1385, in the context of the succession crisis, an event that underscores its central role in the life of the kingdom.
The Old Cathedral is a remarkable example of Romanesque architecture in Portugal, distinguished by its robustness and its fortified appearance, which reflects the defense needs of the time. Its thick walls and the battlements on top give it the appearance of a fortress, a common feature in medieval buildings that also served defensive purposes.
Noteworthy elements include the richly ornamented main portal and the magnificent rose window that illuminates the interior with its filtered light. In the cloister, built in the 13th century, the transition to the Gothic style is noticeable, with the introduction of more slender elements and the lightness of its double arcades, contrasting with the solidity of the main body of the church.
Upon crossing the threshold of the Old Cathedral, the visitor is welcomed by an atmosphere of deep serenity, where the dim light enhances the ancient stone and the grandeur of the naves. The main altarpiece, a remarkable work of gilded woodcarving, contrasts with the sobriety of the Romanesque lines, illustrating the artistic evolution over the centuries.
The various capitals and reliefs sculpted by medieval master stonemasons narrate biblical stories and elements of daily life of the era, inviting a close look at the details. This timeless space invites contemplation and an understanding of the devotion and art that have shaped the city's identity over hundreds of years.
Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sé_Velha_de_Coimbra
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 40.20878024746084,-8.426870612689857
Coordinates DMS: 40°12'31.6"N 08°25'36.7"W
Weather Coimbra
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