Vila Real Cathedral

Vila Real, Portugal

Cathedral of Vila Real was erected in 1424 by Dominican monks from Guimarães who had obtained a royal licence to build a monastery outside the city walls. Today it continues to be known as the Church of São Domingos and constitutes the best example of late Gothic architecture in the Umbria region, although it still includes accentuated Romanesque features. 

In the 16th century, during the reign of D. Manuel, it underwent a first remodelling, as attested by a door surmounted by an armillary sphere. Later, in the 18th century, larger works were carried out and the building started to display elements of baroque style, such as the current main chapel, the bell tower (from 1742) and the large windows on the side walls.

The extinction of religious orders in Portugal in 1834, with the consequent nationalisation of monastic belongings, and a large fire in 1837, destroyed the convent’s interior and much of the church’s furnishing. Later, in 1922, after the elevation of Vila Real to diocese by Pope Pius XI, the church became a Cathedral. Since then it has undergone several modifications which have added more contemporary elements, such as a set of stained glass windows by painter João Vieira.

A visit to Vila Real Cathedral thus offers a journey through the centuries. In 15th-century capitals can be discovered, hidden among the foliage carved in granite, predominant figures of the medieval era: a father, a warrior, a hunter brandishing his lance for a boar, grape pickers harvesting the grapes. Several gothic arches are found in the huge walls, among them one that contains the tomb of Portuguese navigator Diogo Afonso and his wife Branca Dias (15th century). In the sacristy you can see a small, well-preserved 16th century plank depicting the Virgin.

Finally, admire the cathedral’s modern symphonic organ, built in the 21st century and probably the most modern in the country, with its four keyboards, thirty-three stops and a total of 2,192 pipes.

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Details

Founded: 1424
Category: Religious sites in Portugal

Rating

4.5/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Rob Hands (5 months ago)
Spectacular place to visit
rakin chaklader (9 months ago)
It was very good experience in my life again
Cláudio Cardona (13 months ago)
Ah, the Cathedral of Vila Real, also known as Igreja de São Domingos, is a magnificent piece of ecclesiastical architecture steeped in history. Built originally in the 15th century, the church was later elevated to a cathedral, reflecting its importance within the region. The structure features a delightful blend of Manueline and Baroque elements, a visual feast for those enamored by art and architecture. Visiting the cathedral offers not just spiritual solace but also a chance to delve into the history of Vila Real and Portugal at large. It's not just a place of worship but a living museum, reverberating with the echoes of the past. Getting there is quite straightforward, located as it is in the heart of Vila Real. It's easily accessible by foot, and public transportation options are also available. As for myths, there is a local legend that the cathedral was built on a site where miraculous events occurred, a common trope that adds a layer of mystical allure to the already intriguing history. So, whether you are a history buff, a religious traveler, or simply someone who appreciates fine architecture, the Cathedral of Vila Real deserves a spot on your itinerary.
Mim Warren-Angelucci (13 months ago)
A very moving service. Nice that the mass time was posted clearly for 9:00AM on Sundays. Plus, thankful the driving / walking directions were clear.
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