Sé Cathedral of Aveiro

Aveiro may be small enough to visit in a day, but it’s certinaly not too small to have its own cathedral. The Sé Cathedral of Aveiro is the city’s oldest religious institution. It dates back to 1423, when the Dominican Order established a convent next door. At that time, the church was a simple structure, with three naves and no elevated choir. In the 16th and 17th centuries, the layout was slightly changed, and the side aisles were turned into devotional chapels. In 1719, the façade was transformed in grand Baroque style. A new entrance was added, framed by twisted columns and crowned with a pediment displaying three allegorical figures, Faith, Charity, and Hope. It’s a fine example of well-preserved historic architecture, and you’re lucky to still see it today. In 1843, a fire destroyed the Dominican convent, leaving only the cathedral intact. The bell tower was added in 1860, and further extensions and renovations over time gave the cathedral its current appearance. Step inside and you’ll find a warm, elegant interior decorated with Portuguese azulejos, those iconic blue-and-white ceramic tiles, alongside limestone detailing. One of the highlights is in the Chapel of the Visitation, a beautiful 16th-century wooden altarpiece depicting the Virgin Mary and Saint Elizabeth of Portugal. Modest in size but rich in history and artistry, the Sé Cathedral of Aveiro has been listed as a Property of Public Interest since 1996.