Cathedral of Vila Real, Gothic cathedral in Vila Real, Portugal
Description
The Cathedral of Vila Real is a Gothic house of worship with three naves divided by large pillars that rise toward the ceiling. High clerestory windows along the walls flood the interior with natural light.
History
Dominican friars from Guimaraes began construction in 1424, establishing an important religious center in the region. The building was elevated to cathedral status by Pope Pius XI in 1922.
Culture
The cathedral displays carved capitals with scenes from daily medieval life, showing priests, warriors, hunters, and people harvesting grapes. These carvings offer a window into how people lived centuries ago.
Practical
The building stands in the center of Vila Real and is easy to reach on foot. Visitors can attend services or take guided tours to learn about its architectural features.
Did you know?
The modern symphonic organ inside contains around 2,192 pipes spread across four keyboards. This makes it one of the most advanced instruments found in Portuguese cathedrals.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Vila Real).
Mateus Palace
2.8 km
Santuário de Panóias
4.6 km
Vila Real Bridge
2 km
Torre de Quintela
2.8 km
São Pedro
930 m
Casa de Diogo Cão
136 m
Adoufe e Vilarinho de Samardã
8.4 km
Igreja de São Paulo (Vila Real)
212 m
Igreja de São Pedro
410 m
Pelourinho de Vila Real
68 m
Capela de São Brás (Vila Real)
509 m
Igreja de Nossa Senhora de Guadalupe, Mouçós
3.7 km
Ponte de Piscais
3.1 km
Pelourinho de Galegos
6.9 km
Pelourinho de Lordelo
2.9 km
Igreja Paroquial de Vila Marim
2.9 km
Câmara Municipal de Vila Real
225 m
Igreja Paroquial de Nossa Senhora da Conceição
1.1 km
Igreja de Constantim
3.5 km
Igreja do Salvador (Mouçós)
4.7 km
Câmara Municipal de Santa Marta de Penaguião
10.1 km
Capela da Santa Casa da Misericórdia de Vila Real
130 m
Árvore isolada em Rotunda da EN 2 com a EN 15, no Nó de Parada de Cunhos do IP4
1.7 km
Capela de Arroios
3.5 km
Ribeira de Elos
8.3 km
Juízo de Família e Menores de Vila Real
187 m
Jardins do Solar de Mateus
2.9 km
Cruzeiro do Senhor dos Aflitos (Santa Marta de Penaguião)
9.2 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes