Visit Aveiro Cathedral (Śe de Aveiro) to see one of the most important and architecturally impressive churches in the city of Aveiro. Marvel at the striking Baroque features of the façade and browse artwork that adorns a collection of side chapels. Parts of Aveiro Cathedral date back to the 1400s, when it was part of a Dominican convent. It was rebuilt in 1835 following a fire that destroyed the convent one year before.
A broad, paved courtyard in front of the cathedral gives you open views of the Baroque exterior and the adjoining bell tower. Note the four Solomonic columns, characterized by corkscrew designs, and frieze that frame the doorway. Above here are three stone-carved statues, which portray the theological virtues of Faith, Hope and Charity. There’s also the coat of arms of Infante D. Pedro, who was the son of King John I of Portugal, and a Manueline cross of Saint Domingo.
Six chapels sit inside large arches that frame the nave of the whitewashed interior. The most striking chapel has an icon of Our Lady of the Rosary and paintings of the Mysteries of the Rosary prayers. Look for a 16th-century altarpiece that depicts the Virgin and Saint Elizabeth. Mosaics made from azulejo tiles add color to the whitewashed walls.
Located in the Gloria neighborhood of Aveiro, the cathedral is a 15-minute walk from the city’s central railway station. Metered parking is possible, although limited, on the neighborhood’s streets. Opposite the church is the Museum of Aveiro, where religious art decorates the walls of a 550-year-old convent. Also nearby is Forum Aveiro, a shopping mall home to the stores of global brands such as Pandora and Zara.
Aveiro Cathedral is open daily and admission is free. Mass services in Portuguese take place twice daily from Monday to Saturday. There are four services held on a Sunday. Photography is permitted inside however, this is an active church so be respectful of worshippers.
