New Cathedral (Sé Nova)
A 17th-century masterpiece blending Mannerist and Baroque styles, this former Jesuit church is now Coimbra's co-cathedral.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
New Cathedral (Sé Nova)
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 17th-century masterpiece blending Mannerist and Baroque styles, this former Jesuit church is now Coimbra's co-cathedral.
"A beautiful and historically significant site, appreciating its Baroque grandeur and serene atmosphere."
Check Mass Times
Visit outside of service hours for a more tranquil experience. :clock1:
Respectful Attire
Dress modestly as it's an active place of worship. :pray:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Baroque Facade
A stunning 17th-century facade blending Mannerist and Baroque styles, a true architectural marvel.
Serene Interior
Discover quiet chapels and intricate altars that evoke the city's deep spiritual and cultural roots.
Jesuit College History
Explore the former church of the Jesuit university college, a significant part of Coimbra's educational past.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Donation Etiquette
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Mass Times
Visit outside of service hours for a more tranquil experience. :clock1:
Respectful Attire
Dress modestly as it's an active place of worship. :pray:
Donation Appreciated
A small donation helps with upkeep. Be prepared for a request. :euro:
Photography Tips
Capture the intricate details of the Baroque interior. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Mass Times
Visit outside of service hours for a more tranquil experience. :clock1:
Respectful Attire
Dress modestly as it's an active place of worship. :pray:
Donation Appreciated
A small donation helps with upkeep. Be prepared for a request. :euro:
Photography Tips
Capture the intricate details of the Baroque interior. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the New Cathedral a beautiful and historically significant site, appreciating its Baroque grandeur and serene atmosphere. While some note a mandatory donation request, most agree it's a worthwhile visit, especially compared to the Sé Velha's entrance fee. It offers a different architectural style and a glimpse into Coimbra's Jesuit past.
"The New Cathedral of the Holy Name of Jesus in Coimbra blends elegance with history. Its striking Baroque façade invites you inside to discover serene chapels and intricate altars. Standing in the quiet interior, you can truly feel the city’s deep spiritual and cultural roots."
Esrf G
"Construction of this cathedral began in 1598 as the church of the Colégio das Onze Mil Virgens (College of the Eleven Thousand Virgins), founded by the Jesuits. It was completed in 1698. After the expulsion of the Jesuits from Portugal in 1759, the building was repurposed, and in 1772 it became the co-cathedral of the Diocese of Coimbra, replacing the former Sé Velha as the seat of the bishop. The structure began in the Mannerist style and was completed in the Baroque style, particularly evident in the upper sections of the façade."
Seokjin Ham
"Not my favorite cathedral, architect looks modern and the woman’s guard having a long face asking for donation 1 euros by force per person without proof .. LoL"
G Santana
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The New Cathedral (Sé Nova) is located in the heart of Coimbra. It's easily accessible by foot if you're exploring the city center. Public buses also serve the area, with stops near the cathedral. Parking is available nearby, though it can be busy.
Yes, parking is available near the New Cathedral. However, Coimbra's city center can get crowded, so it might be easier to use public transport or walk if you're already in the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While the New Cathedral is a place of worship, there is often a small entrance fee or a requested donation, typically around 1 EUR. Some visitors have noted this is a mandatory request.
Opening hours can vary, especially around religious services. It's best to check locally or online for the most up-to-date information to avoid disappointment.
Photography is generally allowed inside the New Cathedral, but it's always respectful to be discreet and avoid flash, especially during services. Some creators have shared beautiful interior shots.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend about 15-20 minutes inside the New Cathedral, focusing on its architectural highlights and serene atmosphere. It's a relatively quick visit compared to larger cathedrals.
Yes, the path for disabled visitors is available, making it accessible for those with mobility challenges. This is a positive aspect for many visitors.
The New Cathedral showcases a blend of Mannerist and Baroque styles. Construction began in the Mannerist period and was completed in the Baroque style, particularly evident in its facade.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the New Cathedral is located in Coimbra's city center, which offers numerous cafes, restaurants, and bakeries. You'll find plenty of options for a meal or a coffee break nearby.
📸 📸 Photography
The Baroque facade offers a striking exterior shot. Inside, focus on the intricate altars, gilded carvings, and the overall grandeur of the space. The natural light can be beautiful for capturing details.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Tale of Two Cathedrals: Sé Nova vs. Sé Velha
Visitors often compare the two, with some finding the Sé Nova 'much bigger and brighter' than the old one. The heavy Baroque style, adorned with gilded wooden carvings, is a key feature. While the Sé Velha provides a more ancient feel, the Sé Nova offers a different, more opulent perspective on Coimbra's religious history. Many appreciate that the Sé Nova does not have an entrance fee like the old one, though a donation is encouraged.
The Jesuit Legacy in Coimbra
However, this era ended abruptly in 1759 when the Jesuit Order was banned from Portugal by the Marquis of Pombal. This historical event led to the repurposing of their grand church. By 1772, the bishopric seat was transferred from the ancient Sé Velha to this more spacious and contemporary Jesuit church, transforming it into the New Cathedral and a central hub for the Diocese of Coimbra.
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