Évora Cathedral

Cathedral in Évora

Cathedral Of Évora — CC BY-SA 3.0 / Joaomartinho63

The Évora Cathedral is a massive structure, showcasing an architectural transition from Romanesque to Gothic style, with Renaissance and Baroque influences introduced later. It was initiated in 1186 and consecrated in 1204, and is currently the largest cathedral in Portugal.

The exterior of the cathedral features a notable central dome built in the 13th century, and two medieval towers flanking the facade, with the south tower housing the bells and the north tower housing a collection of valuable treasures belonging to the Museum of the Sacred Art. The main portico, sculpted by Master Pêro in the 14th century, is one of the most impressive Portuguese Gothic portals, while the other entrances, the Porta do Sol and the North Gate, display Gothic and Baroque influences respectively.

The interior of the cathedral is divided into three naves and is approximately 80 meters long. The central nave is home to the altar of Our Lady of the Angel, decorated with polychrome marble images of the Virgin and the Angel Gabriel. Additionally, visitors can explore the chapels of Saint Lawrence and the Holy Christ, the Chapels of the Relics and the Blessed Sacrament, and the Renaissance portal of the Chapel of the Morgados do Esporão.

Other notable features include the gothic cloister, constructed in 1325, a Renaissance chair carved in oak wood, and an 18th-century organ. The Évora Cathedral is located on the highest point in the city, allowing visitors to climb to the terrace and enjoy a breathtaking panorama of Évora.

The Évora Cathedral appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Évora!

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