Portalegre Cathedral

Category: Religious Architecture > Cathedral

District: Portalegre > Portalegre > Portalegre > São Lourenço

Location

The Portalegre Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Portalegre and the Parish Church of Nossa Senhora da Assunção, is located in the parish of Sé e São Lourenço, in the municipality of Portalegre.

National Monument

This building was classified as a National Monument in 1910.

History

Construction began in 1556, under the supervision of Bishop Dom Julião de Alva, after the creation of the Diocese of Portalegre. Previously, there was a church called Santa Maria do Castelo on the same site. The support of King D. João III was crucial for the work, which followed the trends of Mannerism at the time.

Conclusion

The cathedral was completed and consecrated in the 16th century. In 1795, it underwent a major restoration, carried out by Bishop D. Manuel Tavares, who also expanded the Episcopal Palace.

Recent Restoration

The Cathedral was renovated between February 2021 and March 2023, with an investment of 3.5 million euros. During the works, mural paintings from the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries were discovered.

Architecture

The cathedral has 28 windows and a façade that mixes elements from the 16th to the 18th centuries. It has two towers, each with four openings for the bells. The interior is divided into three naves with vaults and round arches.

Internal Details

The High Altar has an altarpiece of eight panels. To the right is the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament and to the left is the Chapel of Saint Peter. The pulpits and railings are made of marble.