⛪ Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa)
Portugal
About This Sacred Site
The Sé de Lisboa (Lisbon Cathedral) is the oldest church in the Portuguese capital, built in 1147 on the orders of Afonso Henriques after the reconquest of Lisbon from the Moors with the help of Crusaders. Its fortress-like Romanesque exterior reflects the turbulent era of its construction. The cathedral has survived multiple earthquakes, including the devastating 1755 earthquake that destroyed much of Lisbon. It houses the relics of St. Vincent, Lisbon's patron saint, which legend says were brought by ship accompanied by ravens — explaining the ravens on Lisbon's coat of arms.
Key Facts
- •Built in 1147 after the Christian reconquest of Lisbon
- •Has survived at least four major earthquakes, including the devastating 1755 event
- •Houses the relics of St. Vincent, Lisbon's patron saint
- •The twin bell towers give it a fortress-like appearance typical of reconquest churches
- •Two ravens associated with St. Vincent appear on Lisbon's coat of arms
Location
Coordinates: 38.7098, -9.1325
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