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Cathedral of Évora (Sé Catedral de Évora)

Cathedral of Évora (Sé Catedral de Évora)

Cathedral of Évora (Sé Catedral de Évora)
4.5
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
About
Roman-Gothic 12th century cathedral. Guard a valuable treasure. Spectacular visit the cloisters of the cathedral and coverage, with magnificent views of the historic center. Is part of the monumental complex as a Unesco World Heritage
Duration: 1-2 hours
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  • EC13091
    Ellicott City, Maryland1,560 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Fine cathedral
    Most cathedrals are worth a visit but this one especially so. The huge gothic structure is the centerpiece of Evora. Buying a ticket, we climbed the tower early in the day, before the hot Sun. From the roof we saw all of Evora. We then descended and visited the fine cloisters. Look at the four corner pillars, each with a statue of one of the four evangelists. Inside the main cathedral, there is a gorgeous high altar and fine side chapels. Definitely visit.
    Visited October 2023
    Traveled as a couple
    Written October 3, 2023
  • Samantha L
    16 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    My new favorite memory
    This was my favorite place I visited when visiting Portugal. The town in general is very charming, but this cathedral is overwhelming. I am from Arizona and we don’t have anything like this which made it extra special. We visited during a heat wave which was rough, but it was worth it! The rooftop and the church are incredible.
    Visited October 2023
    Traveled with family
    Written October 10, 2023
  • linskitours
    Harpenden, United Kingdom596 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    #1 Site to visit
    Do go and do buy the full ticket if the weather’s good. The Bones Chapel is special and the cloister wide, peaceful and full of history. The final time in the cathedral will allow you to reflect on Christ and his worship over many centuries in Evora. For us this was the top site in town. The climb to the roof is not too hard and the views spectacular. Not sure I’ve ever walked that far on a cathedral roof.
    Visited September 2023
    Traveled as a couple
    Written October 19, 2023
  • James S
    Toronto, Canada2,515 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Inspiring
    A short walk south from the Roman Temple and still in the Historical centre of Evora one comes to the massive Sé Catedral de Évora, The Cathedral of Evora. This impressive structure was constructed between 1186 and 1204 soon after the area was conquered from the then ruling Arabs. Over the next two hundred years the original modest church was expanded and improved upon to the present structure. Visitors from Lisbon may be surprised that it resembles the Lisbon Cathedral, and this is not by coincidence. Entrance to the Cathedral is 4 Euros with discounts for seniors. This includes general admission to the cloisters and for those more adventurous a chance to climb the narrow staircases to the tower which provides a panoramic view of Evora. For an extra Euro admission to the Museum is included. Note that opening and especially closing times are strictly enforced. The inside the cathedral is in a word spectacular. Every surface is covered in intricate detailing and molding in stone and precious metals. The numbers admitted at any one time is also strictly controlled to prevent crowding and allow for ample time to truly admire the place.
    Visited November 2023
    Traveled as a couple
    Written January 26, 2024
  • Dragon789wv
    Thousand Oaks, California2,365 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Magnificent Gothic church
    We stopped in the Cathedral of Évora (Sé Catedral de Évora). After Évora was reconquered from Arabs in 1166, the new Christian rulers of the city began to build a cathedral, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, though the first building was rather small, and later enlarged. It is the largest of the medieval cathedrals in Portugal, and Gothic style. The most important historical figure associated with the cathedral was Cardinal-King Henrique (1512–1580), who was archbishop and cardinal of Évora. Cardinal Henrique, was brother of King John III, and only ruled for two years.
    Visited May 2024
    Traveled as a couple
    Written July 1, 2024
  • AvidTraveler12
    Winchester, United Kingdom1,828 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Grand Cathedral with great views
    Situated on the highest spot of Evora. The gothic cathedral forms part of the historical city centre. There have been several cathedrals built on this spot, the first was in 1186 and the main chapel added in the 18th century. It is worth climbing to the top of the bell tower as the views of the roof, which you can walk around are magnificent.
    Visited July 2024
    Traveled with friends
    Written August 11, 2024
  • D N
    Hasselt, Belgium119 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Pragmatic Cultural Richness
    No ridiculous waiting line like in Sintra or Belém and definitely more cultural background than both of them. Being part of the cathedral cities you clearly can see the historical & cultural richness of the cathedral, which still is operational. On the rooftops the 1st surprise is the marmer fence, which could use a cleaning. Secondly you get a tremendous view on the city, the valley and the cathedral’s inner-garden. Looking at the structure clearly a reuse of a modified Moorish Fort, although not confirmed by literature. Inside the cathedral reveals astonishing architectural richness dating way back compared to the other 2. As always in Évora the atmosphere remains warm & friendly with the staff focussing on your wellbeing during the visit. Just the way like it should be 👌
    Visited August 2024
    Traveled as a couple
    Written August 13, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Popular mentions

4.5
4.5 of 5 bubbles2,212 reviews
Excellent
1,067
Very good
850
Average
197
Poor
52
Terrible
46

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Simon
Montreal, Canada68 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Feb 2020
There are several parts to this Cathedral, and all are worth exploring. We enjoyed the spiral ascent to the roof, great views of the city and Church structure. The cloisters are not as glamorous or lovely as others we have seen, but should be viewed. The church itself is as stunning as most. The Sacred collection is on two floors and quite expansive. No photos allowed but quite a collection to ponder.

Give this place a few hours and prepare to climb.
Written February 16, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

James S
Toronto, Canada2,515 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Nov 2023 • Couples
A short walk south from the Roman Temple and still in the Historical centre of Evora one comes to the massive Sé Catedral de Évora, The Cathedral of Evora. This impressive structure was constructed between 1186 and 1204 soon after the area was conquered from the then ruling Arabs.

Over the next two hundred years the original modest church was expanded and improved upon to the present structure. Visitors from Lisbon may be surprised that it resembles the Lisbon Cathedral, and this is not by coincidence.

Entrance to the Cathedral is 4 Euros with discounts for seniors. This includes general admission to the cloisters and for those more adventurous a chance to climb the narrow staircases to the tower which provides a panoramic view of Evora. For an extra Euro admission to the Museum is included. Note that opening and especially closing times are strictly enforced.

The inside the cathedral is in a word spectacular. Every surface is covered in intricate detailing and molding in stone and precious metals. The numbers admitted at any one time is also strictly controlled to prevent crowding and allow for ample time to truly admire the place.
Written January 26, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

1957
Ottawa, Canada990 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Nov 2024 • Couples
This cathedral is a must not to miss! This huge gothic structure began in the 12th century (1186-1204), the cloisters of the cathedral are so impressive. We paid 4 euros ( senior fee) but pay 2 more euros to get the whole experience…the inside, the main chapel ( which was added in the 18th century) , the cloisters, the museum and up the steep steps to the roof top terrace which gives you breathtaking views. They limit the number of people that entry , so it’s not too crowded. The museum has 2 floors filled with religious artifacts + archbishop robes, calices and much more but unfortunately I was not able to take my time to enjoy every moment of it due to no circulating air..the heat was on and unbearable. However it was well worth the visit…
Written November 15, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Lacobrigense
Lagos, Portugal6,318 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Jan 2024 • Family
The Catedral da Sé or Catedral Basílica de Nossa Senhora da Assunção was once the most important church in the region, due to the importance of the city of Mariana in the history of Minas Gerais. Mariana was the first capital of the state and, among the colonial cities, it was the only one to be planned.
The Cathedral is located in Praça Claudio Manoel or Sé and was completed in 1760. The highlights are works by masters Ataíde and Aleijadinho and an organ brought from Germany in 1753 as a gift from the Portuguese crown to the first Bishop of Mariana. The organ is considered a treasure and was built by Arp Schnitger, one of the greatest organ builders of all time.

There are concerts every Friday and Sunday. To see just the Cathedral, we have to pay (I don't know the amount as I was invited to see it by the municipality) and it gives you the right to see the Archdiocesan Museum of Sacred Art which brings together paintings, sculptures and religious objects.
Google
Written March 4, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Kevin S
Pontypridd, UK7,058 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Jun 2021
Not especially grand from the outside the interior certainly is something special. Narrow as with all cathedrals of the time to have such high ceilings with a very ornately decorated altar and a wonderful carved gold coloured side altar. Good views from the rooftop.
Written July 28, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Marty Bielicki
Stuart, FL15,592 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Mar 2022
What we liked most about this Cathedral was going to the rooftop and overserving the surrounding Alentejo plains and city below. The famous “Templo de Diana” can also be seen at this view point.

Unlike Belem Tower in Lisbon, there are hand-rails up the narrow steps. I should know as I fell down those Belem Tower steps. I am so appreciative that the “fathers” of the Evora Cathedral had the wither all to place those rails in strategic locations.

The Cathedral is magnificent. There is something so majestic about Portuguese and European Cathedrals in general.

The cloister reminded us of a smaller version in Lisbon’s cloister, Jeronimos. Still beautiful though.

We were disappointed in the museum section however. A QR code opened the museum door. There are several rooms with unique church antiques. I snapped a picture and was immediately reprimanded that “no pictures” allowed in the museum by a security patron. Not even without flash.

Now, this policy was not true over at the Church of St. Francis where pictures are encouraged. Consequently, I cannot show you what “Santa Lenho (the holy wood,” the king’s scepter, the ivory statue of Mary or even the canonicals look like. I hope the Cathedral association changes this policy. It did, though, give the security guard something to do as I was the only one visiting this area.

Even with the above disappointment, we still give the Evora Cathedral a “5” rating.

If you found this review to be “helpful” in any way, please leave a helpful “CHECK” to let me know.
Written April 28, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

ESVincent
Hong Kong, China1,122 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
May 2022
The Cathedral provides a cool and fascinating place to visit. For 3 Euros you can visit the Tower, cloisters and cathedral - its the best deal.

The walk up to the Towers is narrow and steep but you are rewarded with excellent views across the plains, the town and of course the bells of the Cathedral. Its is good ..then down to the cool wider cloisters to admire the orange trees, the delightful sculptures and of course the tranquility

Finally into the cool darkness of the cathedral with its soaring Gothic columns, gold chapels and amazing ceiling. Pause and reflect and enjoy..

Great visit
Written May 18, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

nyc3kids123
New York City, NY137 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Jul 2022
We took the steps up to the roof (narrow, winding steps; not for the claustrophobic) and were treated to gorgeous views of Evora, including the roman ruins. When we were at the roman ruins, I saw people on a roof in the distance and decided we had to figure out how to get up there.
Unlike Italy where there probably would have been a lot of tourists, we were the only people on the roof at the time. How cool is that? The views were lovely and the roof of the cathedral is cool looking.
Sorry but I was so taken with the roof that I don't remember the cathedral itself.
Written July 27, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

WanderingOttersons
Denver, CO1,475 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Nov 2021
Let's face it - how many places in the world can you stand on the roof of a near 700 old cathedral and overlook a walled in centuries old town with a 2000 year old Roman temple right next door? The answer? Probably one but I'm not 100% sure of that. It certainly can't bee too many for sure. A stop here is well worth the visit if nothing more than to head to the rooftop and check out the views. The church itself is beautiful as well and walking around and imagining the history of the church and it's surroundings is surreal.
Written December 25, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

LuizDutraNeto
Rio de Janeiro, RJ8,567 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Jan 2020
At the city's historic center, stands the magnificent "Sé Catedral de Évora", a Unesco appointed, since 1988, "World Heritage Site". Its construction started in 1280 and was finished in 1350, when it was dedicated to the "Blessed Virgin Mary". The Cathedral was built according to the Gothic-Roman style's characteristics, in the shape of a Latin Cross. Visit its altars, chapels, artworks, cloisters, terrace, dome, lantern-tower and museum. From its terrace, fantastic views of Évora and its surroundings. Enjoy!
Written December 9, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

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Cathedral of Évora (Sé Catedral de Évora), Evora

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