Cathedral of Évora

The Cathedral of Évora, known locally as Sé Catedral de Évora, is a majestic Roman Catholic church situated in the historical city of Évora, Portugal. Nestled at the city's highest point, this grand structure stands as a testament to the rich history and architectural prowess of the region. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988, the Cathedral of Évora draws visitors from around the globe, eager to explore its Gothic splendor and historical significance.

The History of the Cathedral of Évora

The origins of the Cathedral of Évora date back to the 12th century, following the Christian reconquest of the city from Moorish rule in 1166 by Geraldo Sem Pavor, also known as Gerald the Fearless. The initial construction of the cathedral began in 1186 and was completed in 1204. However, this early structure was relatively modest compared to the grand edifice that stands today.

Between 1280 and 1340, the cathedral underwent significant expansion and transformation, adopting the early Gothic architectural style that characterizes much of its current appearance. Over the centuries, various additions and modifications were made, including the Gothic cloisters in the 14th century, the Manueline chapel of the Esporão in the early 16th century, and a magnificent Baroque main chapel in the 18th century. These layers of architectural evolution make the Cathedral of Évora the largest medieval cathedral in Portugal and a prime example of Gothic architecture in the country.

Exploring the Exterior

The exterior of the Cathedral of Évora is a sight to behold. The main façade, constructed from rose granite, bears a striking resemblance to the Lisbon Cathedral. Flanked by two massive towers completed in the 16th century, the façade features a narthex, or entrance gallery, which encloses the main portal. Above the narthex, a large window with Gothic tracery illuminates the interior of the cathedral.

Each of the towers boasts a unique conical spire, with one adorned with medieval colored tiles. The outer walls of the cathedral are decorated with battlements and decorative arcaded corbels, adding to its fortress-like appearance. The lantern tower over the crossing is particularly picturesque, with its row of windows bathing the transept area in natural light. This tower's design is reminiscent of other churches in the Duero Valley, such as the Zamora Cathedral and the Torre del Gallo of the Old Cathedral of Salamanca.

The ogival main portal is a masterpiece of Portuguese Gothic sculpture. Marble columns are adorned with statues of the Apostles, executed in the 1330s by sculptors Master Pero and Telo Garcia. These free-standing Gothic sculptures are rare in Portugal and add a unique charm to the cathedral's entrance.

Delving into the Interior

Stepping inside the Cathedral of Évora, visitors are greeted by a grand Latin cross layout, with a higher nave flanked by two aisles, a transept, and an apse with three chapels. The crossing of the transept is topped by a dome supported by pendentives and an octagonal lantern. The transepts are illuminated by two Gothic rose windows, one depicting the morning star and the other the mystical rose.

The large nave features a pointed barrel vault, with white mortar accentuating the bare high walls, pillars, and vaults. In the first two bays near the entrance, visitors can admire the Manueline high choir, designed by architect Diogo de Arruda in the early 16th century. The high choir is adorned with Mannerist-style choir stalls carved from oak in 1562 by sculptors from Antwerp, featuring mythological reliefs and scenes from courtly life.

One of the cathedral's highlights is the ancient organ, the oldest still active in Portugal, dating back to around 1544 and crafted by Heitor Lobo. Near the entrance, the small baptistery houses a fresco depicting the Baptism of Christ, 18th-century azulejos, and 16th-century Manueline wrought-iron railings.

In the central nave, a large Baroque altar stands, featuring a polychrome Gothic statue of a pregnant Virgin Mary (Nossa Senhora do O) from the 15th century. Facing the Virgin is a polychrome Renaissance statue of the Archangel Gabriel, attributed to Olivier of Ghent from the 16th century.

The main chapel, rebuilt between 1718 and 1746, showcases the Roman Baroque style favored by King John V and his architect João Frederico Ludovice. The chapel's polychrome marble decoration and painted altars, although stylistically different from the medieval interior, are an elegant masterpiece. The main altar features sculptural decoration by the Italian Antonio Bellini and a crucified Jesus by Portuguese sculptor Manuel Dias, based on a drawing by Vieira Lusitano. The painting of the main altar was executed by the Italian Agostino Masucci.

The Cloisters

The Gothic cloisters, built between 1317 and 1340, reflect the influence of the cloisters of Lisbon Cathedral. Despite their late-Gothic tracery, the use of granite gives them a heavy, imposing appearance. Each corner of the cloister gallery features a marble Gothic statue of one of the Four Evangelists. The Capela do Fundador, the funerary chapel of Bishop D. Pedro, the builder of the cloisters, houses his tomb with a recumbent figure, a statue of the Archangel Gabriel, and a polychromed statue of Mary. The upper story of the cloisters offers a grand view of the cathedral and the surrounding landscape.

The Cathedral Museum

The Cathedral Museum is a treasure trove of historical artifacts and artwork. Highlights include the scepter of Cardinal-King Henrique, a 16th-century goldsmith work in Manueline style, and a Gothic ivory statue of Mary from the 13th century, whose midriff opens into a triptych depicting scenes from her life. The museum also houses the 17th-century reliquary of Santo Lenho, believed to contain pieces of Christ's Cross, adorned with 1426 true gems. Additionally, visitors can admire a collection of canonicals from the 17th and 18th centuries and paintings by renowned artists such as Gregório Lopes, Cristóvão de Figueiredo, and Garcia Fernandes.

The Cathedral of Évora is not just a place of worship; it is a living museum that encapsulates centuries of history, art, and culture. Its towering presence and intricate details make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the enchanting city of Évora.