Portalegre Cathedral

Portalegre Cathedral, the Sé of Nossa Senhora da Assunção, is the cathedral of Portalegre, begun in 1556 after the creation of the diocese and completed in the early 17th century. It has a Renaissance plan, a front between twin towers, and Mannerist and Baroque altarpieces inside.

The cathedral is classified as a National Monument and is the cathedral of the Diocese of Portalegre-Castelo Branco.

What to see at Portalegre Cathedral

Façade: a front between two towers with pointed tops, remodelled in the 18th century.
Altarpieces: a series of Mannerist and Baroque altarpieces in the nave and chapels.
Sacristy: a sacristy lined with 18th-century tiles.

History of Portalegre Cathedral

1550: Pope Julius III establishes the Diocese of Portalegre, and King João III raises Portalegre to the status of a city on 23 May 1550.
1556: construction of the cathedral begins.
Early 17th century: the building is completed.
18th century: the façade is remodelled.
1956: the diocese is renamed Portalegre-Castelo Branco.

Visiting Portalegre Cathedral

Location: the cathedral stands in the upper part of the historic centre, in the parish of Sé e São Lourenço, next to the municipal museum.
Visits: the cathedral is open for worship and visits.