Lisbon Cathedral

Catholic cathedral · Castelo

Lisbon Cathedral

Catholic cathedral · Castelo

1

Largo da Sé 1, 1100-585 Lisboa, Portugal

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Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null
Lisbon Cathedral by null

Highlights

Historic cathedral, mixed architecture, city views, oldest church  

Featured in Conde Nast Traveler
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Largo da Sé 1, 1100-585 Lisboa, Portugal Get directions

sedelisboa.pt
@sedelisboa

Information

Static Map

Largo da Sé 1, 1100-585 Lisboa, Portugal Get directions

+351 21 886 6752
sedelisboa.pt
@sedelisboa

Features

wheelchair accessible parking lot
wheelchair accessible entrance

Last updated

Aug 14, 2025

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My Favorite Airbnb: A Lisbon Loft in Central Alfama

"A beautiful, historic cathedral located in the heart of the Alfama district."

https://www.cntraveler.com/story/my-favorite-airbnb-alfama-lisbon
View Postcard for Lisbon Cathedral

Luke Loran

Google
This is an amazing church to check out. I would recommend paying the small entrance fee of $7 euros I believe. You get to see so much more and it is so worth it. I am always memorized by the architecture. I am not religious and I truly enjoyed this powerful place.

Trachemysta

Google
The cathedral in Lisbon is impressive from outside, on its main facade ⛪. Once you get inside, the walls and colored glass are mesmerizing, especially in the afternoon with all the lighting coming in directly in different colors. The views from the top are also astonishing. Having said all this, in my opinion it was a bit overpriced considering that you cannot visit too many rooms or areas within the cathedral, there are no audio guide, and that the visit can be completed in half an hour. Still if you like cathedrals you cannot miss this one.

Seokjin Ham

Google
The cathedral was built in 1147 shortly after Afonso Henriques reconquered the city. It was constructed on the site of a former mosque and originally designed in Romanesque style. Over the centuries, it has undergone multiple restorations due to earthquakes, resulting in a fascinating mix of architectural styles, including Gothic, Baroque, and Manueline. The cathedral remains the spiritual heart of Lisbon's Catholic community today. If you go inside and climb the stairs, you can get a close look at the beautiful rose window from both front and back. / ※ Entry available at 20% off with the Lisboa Card.

Felix Wong

Google
Happened to visit when it was open to the public for free — truly grateful for the chance to explore inside. While it may not be the most breathtaking cathedral, it offers a peaceful and reflective atmosphere. A charming spot to slow down for a while. If you're lucky, a traditional tram might pass right in front, perfect for capturing a uniquely Lisbon photo.

Janice Breaux

Google
Getting up the hill to the Cathedral is the hardest part!😂 The $7 euro ticket price was reasonable to tour the inside. Self guided tour was nice at your own pace. Beautiful art, artifacts, architecture & rich history was fascinating. It was a treat to go out on the balcony overlooking the city. You can scan the QR Code for audio programming if you’d like. Taking pictures was permitted except in one area. I enjoyed the tour & recommend it to others.

Volkan Derinbay

Google
This cathedral and its treasures are truly worth seeing. The museum is not very large, but the exhibited items are remarkable and deserve admiration. From a narrow balcony, you can enjoy a unique view of the cathedral from the second level. On the first level, visitors have the option to light a candle or an electric bulb, adding a personal touch to the experience. Several rooms house treasures that can be viewed only through glass walls, offering a glimpse into the immense wealth Portugal amassed from the newly discovered continents. It's a visit rich in history, artistry, and spiritual atmosphere.

Christie McCarthy

Google
Beautiful church. Well worth the admission fee of 7 euro which is discounted if you have the Lisbon Citi pass. Very beautiful artifacts dating back to the middle ages. The view of the city from the top is lovely.

Mike

Google
The cathedral is visible from many parts of the city so we decided to visit it. It's a very nice building with a lot of history. I definitely recommend going here if you're in Lisboa. But be aware of the steep climb towards the cathedral!
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Jennifer S.

Yelp
Beautiful artwork and cathedral. Come early as it gets busy but def make your way up the stairs. It's worth it.
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Morris N.

Yelp
Love old churches in Europe. We always visit a few in each country we visit. The history and detail in this church is amazing.
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Bruce K.

Yelp
My 100th review in Portugal landed and it's awesome that it is the fabulous and historic Lisbon Cathedral (in Portuguese, Sé de Lisboa). The oldest church in the city, it was originally built in 1147 following the conquest of Lisbon by D. Alfonso Henriques. It was initially a Romanesque style with the gothic cloister being started during the reign of D. Dinis (1261-1325). In 1649, a new sacristy was added, in a mannerist style. The cathedral was heavily damaged by the tremendous 1755 earthquake (estimated at a magnitude of 7.7). The cloisters and many chapels were also ruined by the quake and the fire that followed. The cathedral was partially rebuilt and, in the beginning of the 20th century, was given the appearance that it has today after a profound renovation. The cathedral is open for tours and I would definitely recommend you take the time to appreciate the Treasury which displays a number of liturgical objects that have been preserved. One of the finest is the D. Jose Monstrance that weights more than 17 kilos (all gold and 4,120 precious stones). However, no photos are permitted in the Treasury and there is a guard to ensure this rule is followed. Once you've finished the Treasury, the various chapels and the main hall are amazing. Definitely go upstairs for the full view inside and out. [Review 16583 overall - 100 in Portugal - 93 of 2022.]
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William W.

Yelp
Of all the cathedrals we've seen in 79 countries - and we've seen a lot - this one isn't necessarily all that remarkable. But its history is far more thrilling than its actual appearance. Built in 1147, this is now the oldest church in Lisbon and a survivor of several earthquakes. Rather than a stunning tribute to Catholicism like Vatican City's St. Peter's, Moscow's St. Basil's, or Notre-Dame in Paris, this structure is far more modest. In fact, it only stands 39 feet (12 m) tall, so if you go, expect tremendous history but don't go out of your way hoping for a grand basilica.
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Tanja N.

Yelp
Lisbon cathedral is one of the most important examples of Portuguese fortification.it is almost 900 years old and it's was hit with various natural disasters (one of them famous 1755 earthquake) and for that reason renovated and modified many times. The cathedral was built by the order of Portugal's first king-Alfonso Henriques. Many people are surprised when they find out that Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in the world and oldest in Western Europe. It is older than Rome, Paris or London by centuries. The original name was Olissipo and it was founded by the Phoenicians. The cathedral itself is one of the oldest buildings in the city. I loved it, it is nothing like any other cathedral I encountered in Europe. It is situated uphill in the busy residential neighborhood with traffic (specifically trams) passing by every few minutes. When I say passing by, they are uncomfortable close to the buildings, nothing like I expected. Usually cathedrals are found surrounded by fountains on open squares, where many worshippers and tourists can mingle around.. well not this one and I liked it. We visited early in the morning and later in a day, on both occasions it was closed. Next time.
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Ted R.

Yelp
The history and archaeological site is beyond compare. You will be taken back to the time when Lisboa the capital of the world's greatest empire and beyond. Way beyond! The archaeological excavations in the closer garden began in 1990 and structures were found dating from the eighth century BC to the 14th century A.D. when the cloister was built. Phoenician ceramics were the earliest found here.
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Sophia C.

Yelp
A quaint medium sized church that is a must see for all who visit Lisbon of Catholic background. Lisbon is the place St. Anthony was a result the church has plenty of information on St. Anthony. I did not see any nearby dedicated lot but the location is very residential and if you don't mind a brief walk can take in some of the local sights well walking over. I myself found that enjoyable being a visitor.
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Jim R.

Yelp
Located high on the hill on the way to St Jores castle, this is the main Catholic Church in Lisbon. Compared to the churches and cathedrals in Spain or Italy, inside the cathedral isn't all that impressive except for its age and ability to last all these centuries. It definitely has the feel of a spiritual place but lacks the Renaissance opulence of more recent churches. Their is no cost to enter the building itself but small fees are collected to get up by the altar. If you happen to be walking by anyway, by all means stop in for 15 minutes but getting a few pictures of the exterior is probably all that you'll really show people back home after you trip.
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Michael U.

Yelp
The oldest church in the city of Lisbon, built in 1147, this cathedral has survived multiple earthquakes and has been renovated and restored several times. Featuring mixed architecture the Sé de Lisboa is interesting in a way, but far less grand than those in major cities elsewhere and only requires a brief visit.
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Wilson L.

Yelp
Cool visit at this beautiful Cathedral. Tons of amazing architecture here, definitely check it out if you're in the area, but not really worth a trip out just to see if it's a journey.
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Kanchan B.

Yelp
I had walked by the Lisbon Cathedral a couple of times, but each time it was closed and so was super happy, when walking by after our food tour in the Alfama district, to find the doors open and a procession of priests entering the door along with straggling congressional members. I too joined the folks streaming in and having received a flyer, realized it was a mass to celebrate the night before Easter Sunday! There weren't any seats available, but I stood in the back and so actually got a great view of everything that occurred plus also got to drink in the magnificent church decor and architecture plus overall atmosphere. I have to mention that the yellow lights and candles used in the cathedral were just amazing - it cast everything in this hazy, mellow, golden glow. There was also a statue inside that reminded me of the Pieta. Architecturally from outside, the Cathedral doesn't resemble any of the Churches I have seen in other parts of the EU with their fancy curlicues and decorations. Instead it reminds me of an entrance to a fort, with two big towers on each end and a grand door with multiple arches in the middle. Being able to participate in the service and celebrations occurring the night before Easter Sunday at the Cathedral was awesome! I couldn't understand much of anything the sermon was about but the choral hymns sent goosebumps down my arms. There was also a bit where the priest would sing some verses and the congregation would respond and then at one point, everyone stood up and lifted their candles over their head and it was a sea of light - such a magnificent sight and I was lucky to be able to take a photo of this occurrence! Very glad got to observe a service at the Cathedral but this conversely also means I didn't really get to check out the alter and much of the interior, apart from the back, which was where I was standing. I hope to return again! Note - Day 3 of Lisbon, Portugal adventures Yelp 205/ 2019
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Ramona G.

Yelp
Lisbon Cathedral known by many names (Patriarchal Cathedral of St. Mary Major, Santa Maria Maior de Lisboa or Sé de Lisboa). My sister and I came here for mass while we were traveling in Lisbon. From the outside it looks like a replica of Notre Dame in Paris. It was so nice to experience a mass said in Portuguese. The only thing they do differently in Portugal is that during the Communion Rite instead of doing the Sign of Peace during mass they hold off on that until after the Concluding Rites . The Portuguese Catholics are some of the nicest Catholics I've ever met! They were so nice to my sister and me and made us feel so welcome! Everyone at mass came up to us and made conversation with us. Something also very special about this cathedral is that Saint Anthony was baptized here! Isn't that precious! My sister and I were able to see his baptismal font that's behind a gate for people to see. Definitely a place you should visit if you're into architecture and history.
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Alexander H.

Yelp
A visit to Lisbon is incomplete without checking out this lovely Cathedral, aka Patriarchal Cathedral of St. Mary Major / Santa Maria Maior. Even if you are not that into churches or / and architecture this place will surely amaze you. Construction began over 850 years ago! And it is a National Monument for more than a 100 years. During history is has been modified and renewed several times, nowadays being a bit of a mix of different types of architecture. And an impressive piece of architecture it is. Sitting halfway on a hill, it has a prominent spot in this city. The Tram 28 passes it, making some great pics. Be sure not just to see it from the Tram but to really take time to visit this cathedral. Inside it is as impressive as outside. There's no entrance fee even. Too bad some visitors still can't be quiet in churches. A bit talk I don't mind, but keep it low and be respectful of this place.
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Jocelyn C.

Yelp
Beautiful church with its greatest strength being its history and simplicity. I highly recommend getting a ticket to the cloister. The cloister has a site that shows centuries of civilizations building on top of other civilizations. Cloister ticket also gives you access to chapel add-ons to the church, which are really cool. Lots of dead people in their beautiful tombs, and I always like that part a lot! Treasury has a beautiful view of Lisbon, but so does the castle at St George. Has some cool stuff to look at, but that part isn't a must see. Enjoy!
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Matt G.

Yelp
Nice but not as captivating as the church in Belem, but then again why compare. Go inside while you are in the area to look at the castle complex. Like any Cathedral in Europe you will find three types of visitors entering: 1. The photo enthusiasts with big lense cameras trying to zoom in every nook and cranny in front of you and forgetting to make a donation after taking 1000 photos 2. The tourists treating benches for mass as the equivalent of a park bench where they can catch up on emails on their phones, paint their nails and re-apply make up while resting their flip flops on kneeling prayer benches 3. The devoutly religious holier than thou old ladies giving you dirty looks for wearing shorts in church.
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Richard F.

Yelp
This is a beautiful church that will inspire you the minute you walk in. The architecture is exceptional and the statues and side altars are amazing. Make sure you take the time to visit each side altar as each one tells a story of an event in time.
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Alex M.

Yelp
My husband found this church to be a real let down after the many other churches we've seen in Lisbon. Obviously if you are near it go inside but I would not call it a must do.
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Terri S.

Yelp
The Se Cathedral is one of the most stunning churches that is snuggled on the upswing curve heading up to the castle. This cathedral is the oldest in the city, built in 1147. The inside beams with unity and light while displaying many works of art. The frescos that surround the walls and the candles being lit by others just puts your mind someplace else! Right now they are doing some excavation work....so buy the Cloister ticket to get a gander at the amount of history you are standing on. This site will amaze you!
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Anthony G.

Yelp
Beautiful church is a great place to stop on your way back from exploring the castle. You don't need that much time here either to take some nice photographs and move on. It's still very impressive and very beautiful all up at night.

Kristofer M.

Yelp
The cathedral was a really cool free attraction we found on our way down from the Jorge Castle. It doesn't cost anything, and is architecturally stunning inside and out. Definitely worth a stop if you're in the area. There are tons of restaurants, shops and other stuff in the area.