Audio GuideLisbon Cathedral
Sé de Lisboa
Earthquakes have led to this cathedral being rebuilt many times in different architectural styles.
Church
Lisbon, Portugal
Welcome to Sé de Lisboa, Lisbon’s oldest cathedral and a beacon of history and faith. Founded in the twelfth century by King Afonso Henriques after reclaiming the city from the Moors, this majestic building has stood the test of time. Earthquakes, especially the great one in seventeen fifty-five, have reshaped its appearance multiple times, blending Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque, and Neo-Romanesque styles into a unique architectural tapestry.
As you walk through its doors, feel the echoes of centuries past. The High Choir offers stunning views of the central nave, while vibrant stained glass windows illuminate the space with colors that dance across the stone floors. The transept and chancel showcase intricate vaults and beautiful pipe organs, remnants of the cathedral's rich musical heritage.
Explore the ambulatory and radiant chapels, each telling its own story with relics and artwork that honor saints and historic figures. Don’t miss the Chapel of St. Cosmas and St. Damian, home to impressive Gothic tombs, or the Baptistery, where notable personalities were baptized.
Sé de Lisboa is not just a monument; it’s a living part of Lisbon’s cultural and spiritual life. Classified as a National Monument since nineteen ten, it continues to inspire visitors with its beauty and resilience. Whether you’re marveling at the ornate decorations or soaking in the serene atmosphere, the cathedral invites you to connect with Lisbon’s enduring legacy.
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