Sé Cathedral, Porto

About This Activity

Porto's Sé Cathedral is the oldest surviving monument in the city, founded in the 12th century on the highest point of the historic centre. The exterior is severe Romanesque granite, while the interior reveals a Baroque silver altarpiece so heavy it was left in the church through the French invasion for fear of damage in transport. The highlight is the 14th-century Gothic cloister (€3 entry), whose walls are sheathed in blue-and-white azulejo tile panels depicting the Life of the Virgin and the Song of Songs. Entry to the nave is free. Views from the terrace over the Douro River are among the best in Porto.

Seasonal note: Year-round; less crowded than the Ribeira waterfront even in peak summer