St. Sebastian Cathedral, Ilhéus

St. Sebastian Cathedral is a neoclassical church in Ilheus featuring a distinctive dome and carefully crafted exterior elements. The interior displays religious artwork and decorative details that reflect the care taken in designing the structure.

The church was established in 1913 as the mother church of the Diocese of Ilheus, shaping the region's religious structure. Completion of the dome in 1967 marked the end of a multi-decade construction process.

The cathedral serves as a gathering place where the local community celebrates religious festivals and participates in daily worship. For residents, it represents a connection to their faith and the spiritual traditions that have shaped their city.

The cathedral is located on Sao Sebastiao Street in central Ilheus and is easily reached on foot. Visitors should dress respectfully and keep in mind that active services may affect access to certain areas.

The dome was constructed gradually over decades, with technical challenges of the era slowing the work considerably. This unusually extended construction project makes it an example of architectural persistence and innovation from its period.