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Lisbon Cathedral is located in Alfama, a district in Lisbon, Portugal. Built in the 12th century, its first archbishop was the Englishman Gilbert, who made significant contributions to the cathedral. To cope with the devastating earthquake and fire in Lisbon, the cathedral underwent numerous expansions and additions. As a result, the current Lisbon Cathedral incorporates a variety of architectural styles, including Gothic, Baroque, and Romanesque.
The predecessor of Lisbon Cathedral was a mosque and it is also the earliest church in Lisbon.
Climate: Mediterranean climate.
The Mediterranean climate is a type of climate characterized by hot, dry summers, mild and rainy winters, and alternating periods of heat and rain.
Best time to travel: All seasons
Recommended play time: 1-3 hours
free
09:00-19:00 (Monday-Saturday, January 1st-December 31st)
10:00-19:00 (Treasure Room + Backyard + Historic Site) (Monday-Saturday, January 1-December 31)
Note: Closed on religious holidays
The Lisbon Cathedral, also known as Sé de Lisboa, was built in 1147 and is one of the oldest and most important buildings in the city. It was constructed on the site of a former mosque after the Christian conquest of Lisbon. The cathedral combines Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architectural styles, reflecting the rich history and evolution of the city. It serves as the seat of the Archbishop of Lisbon and is a key symbol of the city's religious and cultural heritage.
The Lisbon Cathedral is located in the Alfama district, close to the city center. It can be easily reached by taking tram 28 or bus routes 737 and 759, or by walking from the Baixa district. The nearest metro station is "Terreiro do Paço" (blue line), which is about a 10-minute walk away.
The cathedral is generally open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily, with Mass services held in the mornings and evenings. The best time to visit is early in the morning or late in the afternoon, as these times tend to be less crowded. If you prefer a quieter experience, weekdays are usually better than weekends.
The entrance fee to the Lisbon Cathedral is typically €4 for general admission. The ticket also includes access to the treasury and the cloister. Tickets can be purchased directly at the entrance or online through the official website for convenience. Discounts may be available for students and senior citizens.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance for regular visits, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons (spring and summer) to avoid long queues. Booking tickets a day or two ahead should be sufficient for most visits.
To fully explore the Lisbon Cathedral, including the church, treasury, and cloister, allow about 45 minutes to 1 hour. If you're interested in taking a guided tour, it might take longer to understand the rich history and architecture.
Guided tours are available in several languages, including English, Spanish, Portuguese, and French. Audio guides are also available in multiple languages, providing an in-depth look at the cathedral's history and architecture.
Start by entering the main hall and admiring the altarpiece. Then, proceed to the treasury and crypt, where you’ll find artifacts and tombs of historical significance. Finish with a walk through the cloisters, which is often the most peaceful part of the visit.
Night visits or light shows are not available at the Lisbon Cathedral. However, the cathedral sometimes offers special tours and events, particularly around religious holidays or during cultural celebrations. It’s worth checking the official website for any scheduled events.
The Lisbon Cathedral can get quite crowded, especially on weekends and during peak tourist seasons. To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon, particularly on weekdays when the cathedral is less busy.
Basic facilities such as toilets are available at the cathedral. However, there is no café or restaurant inside. For refreshments, you can find several cafés nearby in the Alfama district. There is a small souvenir shop near the entrance where you can purchase religious artifacts and postcards.
The Lisbon Cathedral is accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, with ramps available for wheelchair access. However, there are some uneven surfaces and steps, especially in the cloisters, which may be challenging for those with mobility issues. Children will enjoy the historical significance and artwork inside.
Both cash and cards are accepted at the Lisbon Cathedral for ticket purchases and in the gift shop. Mobile payments are also generally accepted, making it convenient for visitors.
While traditional Portuguese cuisine focuses on meat and seafood, many restaurants nearby offer vegetarian and vegan options. Some restaurants also offer halal food, but it’s best to inquire in advance to ensure availability.
There is a small souvenir shop at the cathedral where visitors can purchase religious items, such as rosaries, candles, and religious icons. You can also find postcards, local crafts, and Lisbon-themed gifts in nearby shops.
Trams and buses can easily take you to other areas of Lisbon, such as Baixa, Bairro Alto, or the Belém district. The nearest metro station, "Terreiro do Paço," is a 10-minute walk away, and taxis are readily available for those looking to explore further.
