Faro’s Cathedral, officially called Igreja de Santa Maria or Sé de Faro is a cathedral that stands in the heart of Faro’s Old Town. It was initially built on the site of a Roman forum and later a Moorish mosque. Construction of the Cathedral began in 1251, when the area was reconquered from the Moors. Since its construction it has been rebuilt and renovated multiple times. Notably after Faro was sacked by the British
Sé de Faro – Faro’s Cathedral
The cathedral’s architectural style has changed considerably. The present structure is a rather inconsistent blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque elements, making it a fascinating study for architecture enthusiasts. It was Initially built in a Gothic style but underwent significant changes after the 1755 earthquake. Notably, the main façade, originally Gothic, features a Renaissance portal flanked by Baroque bell towers.
Visiting Faro’s Cathedral
There are four main areas of the cathedral that visitors can experience today. The bell tower and viewing platform, the main church and chapels, the churchyard and bone chapel, and the religious museum of sacred art.
Faro Cathedral’s Bell Tower
Following a very narrow staircase with 68 steps will lead you to the belltower. It’s not quite a traditional bell tower, but a flat roof top. It offers stunning views over the terracotta rooftops of Faro, the marina, and out into the Ria Formosa. Even if you’re not interested in visiting religious architecture or chapels, taking in the view from the bell tower is worth the entry price of the cathedral alone. It’s here you can fully meet the stunning scenery around Faro.
Igreja de Santa Maria – Inside the Cathedral
Inside of the cathedral, which is officially called Igreja de Santa Maria, you’ll find a treasure trove of art and history. The interior consists of three naves divided by columns of the Tuscan order. There are unique design elements including azulejo tiles (hand-painted tiles), which cover the walls and floors of the chapels, telling biblical stories. The main altar is covered in gold leaf and is a striking example of Baroque artistry. Another intriguing feature is the cathedral’s organ which was built in 1715. The organ was decorated with chinoiserie paintings in 1751 by a local artist from Tavira.
Faro Cathedral’s Bone Chapel
Faro actually has two bone chapels, the much more famous Capela dos Ossos at Igreja do Carmo, and in Faro Cathedral a much smaller one found in the courtyard. If you’re looking specifically for a bone chapel, then you should visit the much larger one. However, if you’re already at the cathedral then it’s a unique feature to be found in the church yard.
However, it is in a state of disrepair and can only be viewed from a distance away.
Where is Faro Cathedral?
Faro Cathedral occupies a central spot in Largo da Sé, within the walled Old Town of Faro. For visitors arriving by car there is a large free car park in Largo de São Francisco, a short walk from the old town.
Its full address is: Largo da Sé 11, 8000-138 Faro
Admission to Faro Cathedral
Tickets can be purchased at the main entrance. A full visit costs €5.00 and includes the belltower, church and churchyard, and entry to the religious museum. Concessions are available for children, students, and over 65s for €2.00.