Lisbon Cathedral

Oldest church in the city (1147). Gorgeous catholic cathedral and a must visit. Very cool to be able to go up in the old choir loft and especially outside by the large stained glass window on the front of the cathedral. There was a short line when I went on a weekday, so you may want to buy tickets in advance for a weekend, cruise ship port day, or high season. I was disappointed that the cloisters were closed when I went.

Santa Maria Maior is the kind of place that makes you fall in love with Lisbon almost instantly. It’s the heart of the city — full of charm, history, and little surprises around every corner. Wandering through its narrow streets, you go from lively plazas to quiet alleyways, all wrapped in that classic Lisbon mix of energy and old-world beauty. You’ve got iconic Lisbon landmarks all within a short walk — the Sé Cathedral, the viewpoints in Alfama, Praça do Comércio, and the buzzing streets of Baixa and Chiado. But what really sticks with you is the atmosphere: the tiled facades, the sound of trams passing by, and the tiny cafés where you can stop for a pastel de nata and just soak it all in. It’s vibrant without being overwhelming, historic without feeling like a museum, and genuinely one of the best areas to explore if you want to experience Lisbon’s soul up close.

Beautiful and historic place in the heart of Alfama. The cathedral feels ancient and peaceful inside, with thick stone walls and soft light coming through the windows. I loved seeing the mix of old architecture and history all around. Even from the outside, it’s impressive — especially when the tram passes by. Definitely worth a short visit while exploring Lisbon.

The cathedral was absolutely breathtaking. There is still an admission fee, but you get a discount with the Lisboa Card, which helps. As you enter, you go up the stairs to the treasure room. On the way up, make sure to notice the carved cross on the stairs, said to have been made by Saint Anthony to repel the devil during his studies. The artifacts in the treasure room are beautifully detailed and very well preserved. From there, you can access the interior balcony, which offers a great view of the main church below and a close look at the stunning stained glass centerpiece. There’s also a small passage leading to an exterior balcony overlooking the front of the cathedral, though it’s quite narrow and can get crowded. It’s a tight squeeze, one-way, and very high up, so just take care if you’re not great with heights. The main cathedral itself is massive, with chapels dedicated to different saints along the back. The whole place feels grand and full of history. Overall, an incredible experience and definitely a must-see when visiting Lisbon.

The oldest and most iconic church in Lisbon, full of history and charm. The architecture is impressive, with a mix of Romanesque and Gothic styles. Inside it’s peaceful and beautifully lit, offering a quiet break from the busy streets. Climb up to see the cloisters and enjoy the view of Alfama. A must-visit for history and architecture lovers

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Lisbon's spiritual heavyweight champion since 1147 ⛪ Plot twist: you absolutely should go inside this magnificent cathedral, and here's the best part - it's completely free! No tickets, no queues, just walk right in like you own the place (which, in a way, we all do). The Sé de Lisboa isn't just "a church like all the churches" - it's THE church, Lisbon's oldest and most historically significant. The Romanesque fortress-like exterior might look a bit stern and businesslike, but step inside and you're hit with centuries of Portuguese history. The Gothic cloisters are genuinely stunning, and if you're lucky enough to catch evening light streaming through those rose windows, you'll understand why people have been coming here to feel something greater for nearly 900 years. The treasury and archaeological remains are worth exploring if you have time, but honestly, just sitting quietly in the main nave for a few minutes costs nothing and gives you everything. The acoustics are incredible if you catch a service or choir practice. Pro tip: Combine with a wander through Alfama afterwards - you're perfectly positioned for the neighbourhood's winding charm. Historic, free, and utterly peaceful. What's not to love? 🕊️✨

We went on a Saturday and they happen to be holding a mass, which was a great time to visit. The ticket counter was closed due to the mass so they were not selling tickets but allowed access. Pretty neat to see a full functioning catholic cathedral in action with all of its ornate architecture and items.

The Lisbon Cathedral is absolutely worth a visit. It’s one of the oldest and most important landmarks in the city, with a mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles that really tell the story of Lisbon’s history. The outside is impressive, but the inside feels even more special – calm, quiet, and filled with beautiful details. If you have time, go into the cloisters as well, where you can see layers of history all in one place. It’s right in the Alfama district, so you can easily walk around the old streets after your visit. Definitely recommend stopping by, even if just for a short visit.

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

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

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.]

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.