Old Cathedral of Coimbra
Coimbra
The Old Cathedral of Coimbra, known locally as Sé Velha de Coimbra, is a Romanesque Roman Catholic cathedral located in Coimbra, Portugal. Construction began shortly after the Battle of Ourique in 1139, when Afonso Henriques declared himself King of Portugal and chose Coimbra as the capital. It is one of the most important Romanesque buildings in the country and the only Portuguese cathedral from the Reconquista era to survive largely intact. The cathedral resembles a fortress with its high crenellated walls and narrow windows, reflecting the turbulent times of its construction. The western façade features a tower-like structure with a heavily decorated Romanesque portal displaying Arabic and pre-Romanesque motifs. Inside, the cathedral has a nave with two aisles, a small transept, and an eastern apse with three chapels, covered by barrel and groin vaults. The interior columns boast intricately carved capitals with vegetable, animal, and geometric patterns. The cloister, built in the early 13th century, represents a transition between Romanesque and Gothic styles. Significant 16th-century additions include the Renaissance-style Porta Especiosa on the north façade, crafted by French sculptor João de Ruão, and tiled decorations in the nave. Despite these additions, the cathedral's fundamental Romanesque character remains intact. The Old Cathedral was the seat of the Diocese of Coimbra until 1772 when the seat moved to the New Cathedral. It remains a national monument and a testament to medieval Portuguese architecture and history.
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Tip: Visit during weekdays in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. Check the cathedral's official opening hours before planning your visit. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Guided tours can enrich your experience by explaining the rich symbolism and history embedded in the architecture and art.
Interesting facts
- •The Old Cathedral of Coimbra is the only Portuguese Romanesque cathedral from the Reconquista period to survive largely intact.
- •Its fortress-like exterior with crenellated walls reflects the turbulent times during which it was built.
- •The Porta Especiosa, a Renaissance-style portal on the north façade, was sculpted by the French artist João de Ruão in the 1530s.
- •The cathedral's interior capitals are richly decorated with vegetable, animal, and geometric motifs, showcasing medieval artistry.
- •The cloister combines Romanesque twin arches with Gothic pointed arches, illustrating architectural transition.
- •King Sancho I was crowned in the cathedral in 1185, highlighting its historical significance.
History
Coimbra has been an episcopal seat since the 5th century, succeeding the nearby Roman city of Conimbriga after its destruction by the Sueves in 468.
The current Old Cathedral was commissioned after the decisive Battle of Ourique in 1139 by King Afonso Henriques, motivated by the poor condition of the previous cathedral.
Construction began under Bishop Bernardo and gained momentum with Bishop Miguel Salomão in 1162, who helped finance the works.
By 1185, the cathedral was advanced enough to host the coronation of King Sancho I.
The cloisters were added around 1218 during King Afonso II's reign.
The design is attributed to Master Robert, a likely French architect.
In the 16th century, Renaissance elements such as the Porta Especiosa were added, but the Romanesque core was preserved.
In 1772, the episcopal seat was transferred to the New Cathedral, and the Old Cathedral's role was diminished.
Place Guide
Western Façade and Portal12th century
The western façade features a tower-like structure with a heavily decorated Romanesque portal adorned with Arabic and pre-Romanesque motifs, reflecting the artistic influences of the time. The façade's thick buttresses compensate for the hillside terrain.
Porta Especiosa (North Façade)1530s
A remarkable Renaissance-style three-storey portal built in the 1530s by French sculptor João de Ruão, notable for its sculptural detail and status as a major early Renaissance work in Portugal.
Interior Nave and Capitals12th-13th century
The cathedral's interior comprises a nave with two aisles, barrel vaulting in the nave, groin vaults in the aisles, and a triforium gallery above. The capitals on the columns are richly decorated with motifs inspired by plants, animals, and geometric patterns.
CloisterEarly 13th century
Built in the early 13th century during King Afonso II's reign, the cloister represents the transition from Romanesque to Gothic architecture, featuring pointed arches encompassing twin round Romanesque arches.
Contact
Phone: 239 825 273
