Lisbon Cathedral

Category: Religious Architecture > Cathedral

District: Lisboa > Lisboa > Lisboa > Sé

Location

Situated in the historic area of Lisbon, in the neighborhood that lends it its name, the Sé Cathedral stands as an imposing landmark in the heart of the old city. Its central position, at the foot of the São Jorge Castle hill, gives it a prominent role in the urban landscape, witnessing the evolution of the Portuguese capital over the centuries. From this location, one can feel the pulse of the most genuine Lisbon, amidst the narrow streets and the vestiges of a millennial history.

The Roots of a Millennial History

The Lisbon Cathedral, also known as the Basilica of Santa Maria Maior, is the oldest Christian temple in the capital. Its history dates back to the reconquest of the city from the Moors in 1147 by D. Afonso Henriques, the first king of Portugal. The construction of the cathedral began on the site of an ancient Islamic mosque, which in turn stood on the ruins of a previous Visigothic Christian temple. This superposition of constructions reveals the deep layers of Lisbon's history, visible in the archaeological excavations within, which tell the narrative of the different civilizations that settled here.

An Architecture in Constant Evolution

The original building of the Sé was designed in the robust Romanesque style, giving it an appearance that resembles a medieval fortress more than a religious temple, with its thick walls and crenellated towers. However, over the centuries, the cathedral underwent numerous transformations, incorporating elements from various styles. In the 14th century, for example, the cloister was added in the Gothic style, a notable addition that contrasts with the initial Romanesque austerity. Later, Baroque interventions were carried out, especially in the decoration of altars and chapels, reflecting the artistic trends of the time. These successive alterations, many of them necessary after events such as the great earthquake of 1755, have shaped its unique architectural identity.

Elements of Visit and Symbolism

Inside the Sé, it is possible to discover elements that illustrate its rich trajectory. The large rose window, visible from the high choir, is a highlight for its beauty and size. The temple also houses the chapel of Bartolomeu Joanes and some medieval sarcophagi. Of particular importance are the relics of Saint Vincent of Saragossa, brought to the cathedral by D. Afonso Henriques, which have historically attracted pilgrims over the centuries. The ambulatory, with its chapels dedicated to various saints and the Virgin, was built to accommodate these devotees. A collection of religious objects, known as the Treasure of the Patriarchal Cathedral, is also available for viewing, offering a glimpse into its artistic and spiritual heritage.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt