Cathedral of Guarda

Guarda is a charming little town in central Portugal, nestled at 1056 meters above sea level, at the foot of the Serra da Estrela natural park. The air is pure and the buildings are made of granite. The city is about 30 kilometers from the Spanish border and played an important role in the defense of the country.

The cathedral of Guarda, also called "Sé da Guarda" is located in the Luís de Camões square, in the heart of the city. The square is pedestrian and it is very pleasant to walk around and enjoy the calm. Moreover, it is lined with beautiful buildings and since a few years the letters of the word "Guarda" are installed there. If you are passing through the area, don't hesitate to go and get information at the Guarda Tourist Office, which is located in the square.

The cathedral is very impressive from the outside, because of its size and style. The construction of this imposing religious building began in 1390 and lasted more than 150 years. The beginning of the works took place under D. João I and the end under D. João III, so the people who built it could not appreciate the final result. The architectural style was influenced by this construction period and is between Gothic and Manueline.

 Inside, the height is even more breathtaking when you admire its vaulted ceiling. The whole is sober, like the city, but the choir is nicely decorated. 

The roof terrace is accessible to visitors and offers a magnificent view of the city (paying access).