Lisbon Cathedral Portugal, a Guide

27/01/2023 Indrani Ghose

Exploring Lisbon? Keen to add important sights of Lisbon to your itinerary? Go ahead and add Se Cathedral to your list of things to see in Lisbon. I was there in the cathedral while a wedding was on. Though the access was limited, and I couldn’t explore Lisbon Cathedral interior completely, yet I was left highly impressed with its rich history and the sights I got to see.

History of Cathedral Lisbon Portugal

The Se Cathedral in Lisbon, also known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria Maior, is believed to be over 800 years old. The cathedral was built in the 12th century, during the reign of King Afonso Henriques, the first king of Portugal. The construction of the cathedral began shortly after the conquest, and it was completed in the early 13th century. The cathedral, primarily made of limestone and marble, has undergone several renovations and additions over the centuries, so the current building is a combination of different architectural styles.

Lisbon had been the seat of bishops since 4^th century AD. The city was conquered by Moors and stayed under Arab control from 8^th century to 12^th century. The construction for Sé, Cathedral of Lisbon started in 1150 after the city was conquered from Moors. The Bishop of the city then, the Englishman Gilbert of Hastings, with the approval and support of king Afonso Henriques built this Catholic Church at the site of mosque.

Over the centuries different Kings and different architects have contributed majorly to its construction and as a result it is a mix of several architectural styles. Though this church withstood the major Lisbon earthquake of 1755 it is said that southern part of it had collapsed killing several worshippers who had assembled there to celebrate the feast of All Saints.

Se Cathedral Facade

Why Lisbon Cathedral is important?

The other name of Se Cathedral in Lisbon is Cathedral of Santa Maria Maior. Se Cathedral is the oldest cathedral in Lisbon. Over the years Lisbon cathedral has become an important historical and architectural landmark. Today it is the seat of the Archbishop of Lisbon.

For architecture lovers, the cathedral is a treat to eyes for its grand Gothic style and delicate Manueline decoration. This was the unique style of architecture that developed in Portugal during the 15th and 16th centuries.

Yet another significant historical factor worth mentioning is that the cathedral was built on the site of a mosque that was destroyed in the Christian conquest of Lisbon in 1147.

An interesting connection of Se Cathedral with India is that it houses the tomb of Vasco da Gama, the first European to reach India by sea.

Tomb of Vasco da gama

What to see inside Lisbon Cathedral?

The cathedral was so crowded we couldn’t even get to the religious nave of it, leave alone a glimpse of bride and the groom. We walked through the sides maneuvering our way through the crowd. (Most probably it is here that my husband got pick pocketed.) The sights of artifacts displayed were good and some tourists like us were busy clicking pics. The cloisters are much more peaceful. There are partly excavated remains which reveal the foundations of mosque.

Have this simple Lisbon cathedral guide with highlights, which will help you see the interesting features of Lisbon Cathedral interior. Notable features of Se Cathedral in Lisbon worth seeing inside the building are:

The impressive Gothic architecture is well executed with pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and intricate stone carvings.
The Manueline decoration will equally arrest your senses if not more. The ornate decorations include maritime motifs such as ropes, knots, and shells. This unique style of combination of both styles of architecture was developed in Portugal during the 15th and 16th centuries.
Tomb of Vasco da Gama
The treasury of the cathedral includes valuable religious artefacts such as gold and silver reliquaries, chalices, and monstrances.
Like in every other cathedral, the cloisters of Se Cathedral too are a peaceful place with a beautiful garden and the Gothic arches.
Inside the cathedral, the Chapel of the Kings is one of the most important chapels, where many members of the royal family were buried.

Have more time in hand? Do visit the sacristy, where you can see some interesting examples of tile work and azulejo.

Se Cathedral Lisbon Interior

How much time is needed to tour Se Cathedral Lisbon Portugal?

A tricky question to answer! The time required to tour the Se Cathedral in Lisbon can vary. Lot depends on your interests and how much time you have in hand. A quick general tour of the cathedral can be done in 30 minutes to an hour.

Architecture lovers can linger to understand the architecture of the building, while admiring the cathedral’s intricate stone carvings, its Manueline decoration, and its Gothic style. History buffs can pause at the tomb of Vasco da Gama and learn about his significance. Spiritually inclined tourists will find the religious artifacts and the treasury interesting. Finally, soak in nature and the holy ambiance in the garden and the cloisters.

Summarising, the time for the above activities to see all the highlights at your pace, you could spend around 2-3 hours touring the Se Cathedral in Lisbon.

Se Cathedral altar

Is there any dress code for Lisbon Cathedral?

Se Cathedral in Lisbon dress code is conservative. Dress modestly and respectfully when entering the cathedral. Avoid body revealing clothes like shorts, tank tops, clothes with offensive or vulgar graphics or text and avoid casual wears like flip-flops, or beach wear/athletics wear. Be respectful and considerate of the religious and cultural significance of the cathedral.

Se Cathedral Stained glass windows

Plan a Visit to Se Cathedral

The Se Cathedral in Lisbon is located in the historic center of Lisbon, in the neighborhood of Alfama. It is within walking distance from many famous landmarks and tourist attractions of Lisbon, making it easy to include in an itinerary.

Sample one day itinerary of Lisbon that includes the Se Cathedral Portugal:

Start the day at Se Cathedral, take time to explore the Gothic architecture, Manueline decoration, and the tomb of Vasco da Gama.
Next visit the Castle of St. George, an ancient fortress that offers majestic views over Lisboa city and the river.
Explore the neighbourhood of Alfama after visiting the castle. Wander through the narrow streets of the Alfama neighbourhood, where you can see traditional houses and Fado music clubs.
After Alfama walk visit the National Pantheon, a former church that is now a mausoleum for some of Portugal’s most famous figures.
Take a ride on one of the city’s iconic tram cars. Try and include the tram rides in either the 28 tram or the 12 tram, which will take you through some of the city’s most picturesque neighbourhoods.
Time to enjoy a meal at a traditional restaurant at one of the city’s many seafood restaurants!
Visit the Belem Tower: After your meal, head to the Belem Tower, a 16th-century fortress that played an important role in the Age of Exploration.
Visit the Jeronimos Monastery: After visiting the Belem Tower, head over to the Jeronimos Monastery, a beautiful 16th-century monastery that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This itinerary can take around a full day. It will be a bit tiring; in that case, you can exclude the last two sights. Keep them for the next day. This one day itinerary of Lisbon can be adjusted to your preferences and time availability.

Lisbon Day Tour

Se Cathedral Information

Timings and Ticket Price

Lisbon Cathedral hours: Se Cathedral of Lisbon is open to the public every day from 7 AM until the evening mass. The mass is held in Portuguese, at 7 PM.

There is NO admission fee to the main cathedral but all visitors must be suitably dressed.

The cloisters are open every day from 10 AM to 5 PM. There is an admission fee of €2.50/€1.00 (adult/child).