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Cathedral · Faro, Faro
Sé de Faro
Cathedral built after the Christian conquest of 1249, on the site of the former mosque, mixing Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles. The entrance tower-portal is a remaining Gothic feature.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Sé de Faro
The Sé of Faro, dedicated to Santa Maria, was built after 1249, when D. Afonso III captured the city, on the site of a former mosque. The Gothic entrance tower-portal remains from that period.
The cathedral was damaged in the sack of Faro by the English in 1596 and by the 1755 earthquake, and has been rebuilt several times. As a result the interior mixes Renaissance chapels, Baroque gilded woodwork, azulejos and an organ painted red and gold.
In the courtyard behind the church there is a small chapel of bones and a garden.
The tower staircase leads to a terrace with views over the roofs of the Cidade Velha, the stork nests and the Ria Formosa out to the sea.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 30 to 45 minutes, including the tower.
Best time
In the morning or late afternoon, on clear days for the tower view. Check opening times before you go.
How to get there
It is located at Largo da Sé, within the Cidade Velha, a few minutes from the Arco da Vila.
Tip
Climb the tower: the view over the Ria Formosa is the highlight of the visit. The staircase is narrow.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Sé de Faro
Can you climb the tower of the Sé de Faro?
Yes, the staircase leads to a terrace with views over the Cidade Velha and the Ria Formosa.
When does the Sé de Faro date from?
It was built after the Christian conquest of 1249 and rebuilt several times.
Where is the Sé?
At Largo da Sé, inside the Cidade Velha.