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New Cathedral of Coimbra

Sé Nova de Coimbra · Coimbra (Sé Nova, Santa Cruz, Almedina e São Bartolomeu)

8 story sections

building or structure in Coimbra, Portugal

History & cultureBY TELLBY

Contents

8 sections · tap a section for its opening lines
  1. 1Orientation

    Welcome to the Sé Nova, or the New Cathedral of Coimbra. Do not be misled by the name 'New'; this spectacular edifice was built over the course of a century, from 1598 to 1698. …

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  2. 2The Monumental Facade — Mannerism Meets the Baroque

    We begin our exploration of the Sé Nova at its imposing facade. Looking at the exterior, you can clearly see the two distinct stages of its construction. …

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  3. 3The Soaring Nave — A Space of Grandeur

    Stepping inside the Sé Nova, the first impression is one of immense height and spatial grandeur. The vaulted ceilings soar overhead, creating an acoustic environment that was perfectly suited for the grand liturgical music of the…

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  4. 4The High Altar and Gilded Woodwork — Baroque Splendor

    The high altar of the Sé Nova is a true masterpiece of Portuguese Baroque art. It is dominated by a massive altarpiece made of 'talha dourada,' or gilded wood, which was a hallmark of the period. …

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  5. 5The Side Chapels — Intimacy and Devotion

    As you wander through the side aisles of the cathedral, take time to explore the various side chapels. Each of these smaller spaces was often sponsored by wealthy families or religious brotherhoods, and they contain their own…

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  6. 6The Sacristy and Hidden Treasures — Art of the Church

    The sacristy of the Sé Nova is often overlooked by visitors, but it is well worth a visit for its architectural beauty and the treasures it holds. This was the area where the priests would prepare for the mass, and as such, it is…

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  7. 7The Cathedral in the Student City — Cultural Intersection

    Our tour of the Sé Nova concludes by reflecting on its unique position within the 'City of Culture.' Situated so close to the University of Coimbra, the cathedral has always been deeply intertwined with student life. For…

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  8. 8Closing

    As we conclude our journey through the New Cathedral of Coimbra, I hope you have felt the weight of history and the beauty of the faith that built this monumental structure. From its Jesuit origins to its role as the spiritual…

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What is New Cathedral of Coimbra?

New Cathedral of Coimbra is a place in Coimbra (Sé Nova, Santa Cruz, Almedina e São Bartolomeu) with 8 story sections on Tellby. You can read the opening of each section on this page; the sound plays in the app.

Key facts
LocationCoimbra (Sé Nova, Santa Cruz, Almedina e São Bartolomeu)
TypeHeritage
Story sections8
Text languageEnglish
Coordinates40.2094, -8.4244
Last updated

Nearby places

within a 5-minute walk
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