Lisbon Cathedral — Attraction in Lisbon

I recently had the pleasure of visiting the enchanting city of Lisbon, Portugal. My journey took me to many incredible sites, but one that truly captivated my heart and soul was the magnificent Lisbon Cathedral, also known as Sé de Lisboa. As a lover of history and architecture, I couldn't help but be in awe of this stunning edifice that stands as a testament to the city's rich past. In this review, I will share my experiences and thoughts on this marvelous landmark.

Upon first glance, the Lisbon Cathedral's imposing façade immediately captured my attention. The Romanesque architectural style, with its sturdy and robust appearance, exuded a sense of strength and resilience, which is fitting given that the cathedral has withstood numerous earthquakes throughout its history. The twin towers flanking the main entrance, as well as the beautiful rose window above, were a sight to behold.

Entering the cathedral, I was struck by the harmonious blend of various architectural styles, ranging from Romanesque and Gothic to Baroque and Neo-Classical. This unique fusion of designs is the result of multiple restorations and reconstructions that the cathedral has undergone over the centuries. I was particularly impressed by the Gothic-style cloisters, which feature intricately carved columns and arches, and provide a serene and tranquil space for contemplation.

One of the highlights of my visit was the opportunity to learn about the history of the cathedral, which dates back to the 12th century. It was fascinating to discover that the site originally housed a mosque during the Moorish rule of Lisbon. Following the city's conquest by King Afonso Henriques in 1147, the mosque was converted into a Christian church, which eventually became the Lisbon Cathedral we know today. This historical background added a layer of depth and significance to my visit, as it showcased the intertwining of diverse cultural influences in Portugal's history.

I also appreciated the many artistic treasures housed within the cathedral, including the font where St. Anthony of Padua was baptized, the tomb of the crusader knight Lopo Fernandes Pacheco, and a statue of the Virgin Mary holding the Christ Child. Each of these artifacts holds its own unique story, and they contribute to the cathedral's status as a repository of Portuguese heritage and faith.

The Lisbon Cathedral is not only a stunning architectural marvel, but also an important spiritual and cultural center for the people of Lisbon. During my visit, I was moved to witness the devotion of the local parishioners, who continue to use the cathedral as a place of worship, prayer, and reflection.

In conclusion, my visit to the Lisbon Cathedral was a truly memorable and enriching experience. It provided me with a deeper appreciation for the city's history and the diverse architectural styles that have shaped its identity. I highly recommend a visit to this remarkable landmark for anyone traveling to Lisbon. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, the Lisbon Cathedral will surely leave you with a lasting impression of Portugal's...

Sé de Lisboa (The Cathedral of Lisbon) is the Archdiocese in Lisbon and the oldest church in the city. It is a particularly interesting place to visit in the Alfama district for those who enjoy history, architecture and archeology.

Originally built in 1147, the church has a long history. It has survived several major earthquakes and taken on a blend of architectural styles as a result of repair and renovations undertaken over the centuries.

The exterior of Sé is subtle, being Romanesque in style with two towers and a rose window in front of the entrance. The interior (free entry) is dimly lit with a somewhat gloomy feel. The Romanesque nave gives way to Baroque apse behind the alter as well as a fine ambulatory (€2.50 and includes access to the Cloisters) that is Gothic in style. Here there are nine important chapels with tombs and effigies dating back to the Medieval period to see before entering the cloister.

The Cathedral cloister are very interesting to see and well worth the small entry fee to access this part of the cathedral grounds. Gothic in style, the area more of an archeological site than traditional cloister that you might expect to see. Here you will see unearthed evidence of early Roman as well as Moorish foundations and building structures. Two platforms extend over the excavations and information panels are present, helping point out particular structures and building time periods.

Overall, we found Sé to be a very interesting attraction in the Alfama district. This is a place we quickly marked down for a return visit next time we are in Lisbon.

Note: If you are short on time, a 15-20 minute stop will give you are good feel for the cathedral before moving on to other attractions in the area. Allow 30+ minutes for a more leisurely and through...

Visiting the Sé Patriarcal de Lisboa in 2018 was a truly remarkable and memorable experience. The cathedral’s stunning architecture, rich history, and spiritual ambiance made it a highlight of my visit to Lisbon.

The intricate details of the Romanesque design, combined with Gothic and Baroque influences, showcased centuries of artistic and architectural evolution. The beautifully preserved chapels, stained glass windows, and religious artifacts created an atmosphere of reverence and awe. Exploring the cloisters and the treasury was equally fascinating, providing insights into Lisbon’s religious heritage and cultural legacy. The view of the city from the cathedral’s higher points was breathtaking, offering a peaceful moment to reflect and appreciate the beauty surrounding this historic site. The Sé Patriarcal de Lisboa, also known as Lisbon Cathedral, is the city’s oldest church, dating back to the 12th century. The visit highlighted its historical importance as a symbol of faith and resilience, having survived earthquakes and restorations over the centuries. Key features included the magnificent main nave, the Gothic cloisters, and the treasury housing religious artifacts and relics. The experience provided a deeper understanding of Portugal’s religious traditions and architectural heritage. Overall, the visit was inspiring, combining history, culture, and spirituality in one exceptional place. I highly recommend it to anyone visiting Lisbon, as it offers both beauty and a sense of...