Sé Velha (Old Cathedral)
Presentation
The present temple dates back to the second half of the twelfth century and was consecrated in 1184. It was designed by the French master Roberto, in the Coimbra Romanesque style of the second phase. The church has a sturdy, symmetrical exterior, with few openings and is crowned with battlements.
Observations
The main portal shows evidence of Islamic influence in its decoration, while the side door, known as the ?Porta Especiosa? (Beautiful Door), attributed to João de Ruão, has elegant Renaissance decoration.
Inside, there is a triforium gallery above the side aisles. The high altar retable which is in Flamboyantly Gothic style, dates from around 1498 and the crafting was carried out by the Flemish sculptors Olivier de Gand and Jean d´Ypres. The Mannerist-style altarpiece in the Holy Sacrament chapel, surrounded by an elegantly panelled cupola, is by João de Ruão and dates from 1566. The Gothic cloisters, with their naturalistic capitals, were begun in 1218.
Bus: Blue Line (Linha Azul)
Cloister - closed for repairs