Setúbal Cathedral

A secular church turned cathedral since 1975.

Setúbal Cathedral is dedicated to Santa Maria da Graça. Originally built in the 13 th century, in Roman-Gothic style, it was rebuilt in the 16 th century, according to the layout of António Rodrigues. It was around this building that the most important medieval district of the city developed, as well as its religious and political-administrative centre.

On the imposing facade, two tall, sturdy towers flank the Mannerist doorway. Inside, the altarpieces, with gilded carving, dating from the 17 th and 18 th centuries, are a must-see, as are the 18 th century frescoes on the Tuscan columns that support the naves. The lateral and Blessed Sacrament altars are also worthy of attention. The Main Chapel is a work of gilded carving in «Estio Nacional» style by Master José Rodrigues Ramalho, inscribed on 3 February of 1697. The side walls are lined with panels of blue and white tiles from the 18 th century, depicting scenes from the life of the Virgin.

The diocese of Setúbal was created on July 16, 1975 by the Bull of Studentes Nos of Pope Paul VI, and on October 26 of the same year the first bishop, D. Manuel da Silva Martins, was ordained in this cathedral. In a side street, next to the Terreiro de Santa Maria, you will find the Gothic portico of an old inn – the João Palmeiro Hospital.