Sé de Lisboa

Location:
Largo da Sé
Lisbon, Portugal

Historical Building

By Christopher Minster

Lisbon’s official main cathedral, the Sé is but a shadow of the much more impressive Hieronymite Monastery located along the waterfront. Somewhat lost in a maze of narrow streets, the Sé has little of the rich carvings and adornments of the monastery or other cathedrals. Look for the Romanesque carvings, some of which date back to the 12^th century.

The inside is a little more interesting. The interior is gothic, large, foreboding and a bit gloomy. The baptismal font said to have baptized St. Anthony of Padua is here. Be sure to check out the gothic tombs, where stone warriors and their dogs rest for eternity. You’ll need a guide to visit the sacristy and cloister, but it’s worth it if you’ve gotten this far. Parts of the cloister were damaged in earthquakes, but some of the Romanesque carvings are among the oldest in Portugal. It’s a stern monument to a more austere time.

Getting There
Tram: 28 (Graça). Bus: 37

Travel Tips: It does not take more than about 45 minutes to see everything in the church, even if you visit the cloister.

Price Description: There is no charge to enter the cathedral: if you wish to see the cloister, it will cost you €2.50.

Open Hours from:Tuesday-Sat. 9-7, Sunday and Monday 9-5

Contact Information:
Phone: 21/886-67-52