Silves Cathedral, Gothic cathedral in Silves, Portugal
Silves Cathedral is a Gothic church building distinguished by its red sandstone walls and Latin cross design. The interior features a three-aisled nave, a transept, and three chapels positioned at the eastern end.
The cathedral was built on the site of a former mosque following the 1242 reconquest and was significantly enlarged during King Afonso V's rule in the 1440s. These expansions reflect the religious and political changes transforming the region at that time.
The cathedral serves as a gathering place for the Catholic community and draws visitors interested in medieval craftsmanship. The decorative stone carvings on its walls and doors reflect the artistic skill of the artisans who built it.
The building is located on Rua da Sé in central Silves and is open to visitors who want to explore the Gothic architecture and interior spaces. Plan enough time to view the various chapels and sections of the structure.
The facade displays an unusual combination of whitewashed walls and red sandstone accents that give the building a two-tone appearance. Particularly noteworthy are the decorations featuring animal and human face carvings on the main portal from the 1400s.
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