Cathedral of Lamego

The oldest element still visible are the windows of the tower, with carved capitals, which are a fine example of the Romanesque style of the 12th century.

A succession of styles from different periods characterizes the facade and interior of the Cathedral of Lamego, yet it exudes a sensation of beauty and monumentality .

In the 16th century, Bishop D. Manoel de Noronha added to the upper part, leaving his mark in the form of his coat of arms. In the same century, the remarkable front part was also made, consisting of a triple portal, where elements of the Renaissance and the flamboyant Gothic are visible. It is a beautiful whole. Also from the same period is the cloister decorated with small, elegant arches and which is an example of the architecture of the transitional period between the Gothic and the Renaissance. In the chapel of São Nicolau you will find the tomb of the bishop who founded the cathedral.

Inside, the Baroque style of the 18th century reigns. In 1738, Nicolau Nasoni was appointed to paint the vaults that complete the structure. Through the colourful frescoes, which are well preserved, the faithful who could neither write nor read, learned the episodes of the Old Testament (the creation, the original sin, the childhood of Moses, the trial of Abraham and other parts). In the main chapel there is an 18th century marble altarpiece and two beautiful organs from 1753.

Willem Vandenameele