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Many countries, such as Portugal, are full of completely unique places of worship, which are worth knowing; this can vary between churches, sanctuaries, chapels, etc. All of them have a unique architecture that reflects the dedication and effort put into the construction of these places dedicated to the Christian faith. However, we want you to know below some of the most beautiful cathedrals in Portugal.
1. Lisbon Cathedral
It is worth starting with one of the main centers of worship of the city of Lisbon, as is its cathedral. It could be said that this place has witnessed the entire history of the city and even of the country. The construction of the Lisbon Cathedral began during the year 1147, after the conquest carried out by the first king of Portugal D. Afonso Henriques.
In its place, there was a Muslim mosque, little by little, the historical evolution of the city and the influence brought by the following inhabitants have made it one of the most beautiful cathedrals in Portugal. And throughout the almost 900 years that it has, the cathedral has received some adaptations and modifications, with various styles such as Gothic, Baroque and modern. You can learn more about this cathedral by taking a private tour of Lisbon.
2. Évora Cathedral
It is located in the highest part of the city and has received the title of the largest cathedral in Portugal. When it was built, the architecture was undergoing a transition from Romanesque to Gothic.
Now, as has been done with the Cathedral of Lisbon, the Cathedral of Évora has undergone many modifications over time; however, it has always been able to manifest the style that prevails in each era.
Inside is a very valuable pipe organ. And many Japanese have expressed interest in the city because of the history that has united the two nations.
3. Cathedral of Angra do Heroísmo
The first stone was laid to build this building in 1570. Today, it is consolidated as the largest church that can be found in the Azores archipelago. In addition, UNESCO has designated it as a World Heritage Site.
The city was characterized as a strategic area in which the need was felt to build a cathedral to house the seat of the bishopric. After several centuries, it has been able to have in its interior a series of priceless treasures that have to do with sacred art. Unfortunately, part of the cathedral was lost after the earthquake of January 1980 and the fire of 1983, but it still retains much of its integrity.
4. Funchal Cathedral
The facade of this cathedral is very simple, the complex was built during the 15th century. It was Pope Leo X who elevated the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption and made it the Cathedral of Funchal. Thus, the building became the seat of the largest diocese in the world.
5. Old Cathedral of Coimbra
This cathedral has become a jewel, and it is the only cathedral that has a Romanesque style in Portugal and that has reached today almost intact. When analyzing its style, it can be said that the construction of this church took place during the 12th century, at the time of the reconquest and the coronation of D. Sancho I, who was the second king of Portugal.
6. New Cathedral of Coimbra
This is probably the most imposing cathedral we can mention. The construction of it dates back to 1598, and was carried out by the Jesuits who came to the city, then culminated in 1698, after 100 years. This is one of the most beautiful cathedrals in Portugal and was the first Jesuit college erected in the country. By the 18th century, the episcopal see moved from the old cathedral to this one, because it has more space.
7. Bragança Cathedral
Also known as Sé Nova, the Cathedral of Bragança is also the first cathedral to open in the 21st century. Its style is a bit far from the architectural models we have become accustomed to, such as Baroque, Gothic or Romanesque.
In this cathedral the modern style stands out, and it was built with common materials of the area. The construction began during 1981, but since the decade of the 60’s it had begun to be projected on drawings. However, it was inaugurated in 2001.
8. Co-cathedral of Miranda do Douro
Located between the origins of the Fresno River and the Duero River, this cathedral has become an icon in its locality. It was built in the 16th century. And inside, it is still possible to find the image of the Child Jesus of Cartolinha. In addition, it is home to a very beautiful legend that is related to the War of Succession of the Spanish Crown in the 18th century.
9. Porto Cathedral
Another of the most beautiful cathedrals in Portugal is that of Porto, whose location is in the district of Batalha. It is also at the highest point of the city, and has become the most important religious center in the city.
It was built in the mid-twelfth century, currently has a facade with a Romanesque style, which gives it an appearance similar to that of an imposing fortress. It was dedicated to Our Lady of Vandoma, and inside, we can find some blue tile panels.
10. Cathedral of Portalegre
Finally, this cathedral built in the 16th century has managed to surprise many people. For example, in its interior there are some tile panels dating back to the seventeenth century; in addition, it is the only cathedral of mannerist paintings in Portugal, so it is a jewel worth visiting.
