Santa Maria Maior (Cathedral of St. Mary Major), Lisbon

The Cathedral of Saint Mary Major, often called Lisbon Cathedral or simply the Sé, is a Roman Catholic cathedral and the oldest church in the city. Built in 1147, it has survived many earthquakes and been modified, renovated, and restored numerous times, resulting in a mix of different architectural styles. The seat of the Patriarchate of Lisbon, it has been classified as a National Monument since 1910.

The first cathedral in Lisbon was constructed on the site of the former Moorish mosque shortly after the Second Crusade led by King Afonso Henriquez in the mid-1100s. During this pivotal period, the relics of Saint Vincent of Saragossa, the city's patron saint, were transported from Southern Portugal and enshrined here, remaining undisturbed ever since. Recent excavations in the cathedral's cloister have uncovered Roman, Visigothic, and medieval remains, emphasizing the site's historical layers.

Lisbon Cathedral, a fortress-like structure with a Latin cross layout, maintains its Romanesque roots from the 12th century. The cathedral's robust façade features two towers and crenellations, a design typical of Portuguese cathedrals from the Reconquista era, indicating its historical military significance. The interior preserves the original west façade with a rose window, Romanesque portals, and barrel vaulting.

Transitioning to Gothic architecture in the late 13th century under King Dinis, the cathedral saw the addition of a Gothic cloister, although much of it was later damaged by the 1755 earthquake. Noteworthy Gothic elements include the ambulatory with its radiating chapels and ribbed vaulting, enhancing the structure with ample light and housing significant tombs from the mid-14th century.

The cathedral also hosted the Saint Vincent Panels until the 17th century. The 18th century brought neoclassical and Rococo refurbishments post-earthquake, with significant contributions from the renowned local sculptor Machado de Castro.

Efforts in the 20th century aimed to restore the cathedral's medieval character by removing neoclassical elements. This renovation imbued the structure with a predominantly medieval aesthetic, characterized by robust stone walls and fortress-like towers.

Notable among its chapels is the Chapel of Saint Ildefonso, housing a carved sculpture of one of the first Portuguese Ambassadors, Lopo Pacheco, depicted with a loyal dog at his side. Additionally, the Cathedral includes a chapel dedicated to Saint Anthony of Padua, a celebrated figure born in Lisbon.

Tip:
Admission to the Cathedral is free. For a modest fee, between 10 am and 5 pm, you can also ascend partway up the tower to the Treasury. Please note that it is closed on Sundays.