Faro Cathedral (Sé de Faro) rises over the Largo da Sé square in the Old Town (Cidade Velha) of Faro, capital of Portugal's southern Algarve region. Founded in 1251 on the site of a Roman temple and later a mosque, it was heavily damaged in the 1755 earthquake and rebuilt, giving it a distinctive blend of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles. Climbing its bell tower rewards you with sweeping views over the orange-tree-lined square and the Ria Formosa lagoon.
Bell tower views: a narrow staircase of roughly 68 steps leads to a terrace with panoramic views of Faro's terracotta rooftops and the Ria Formosa Natural Park lagoon
Gilded woodwork and azulejos: Baroque gold-leaf carving and blue-and-white tile (azulejo) panels depicting biblical scenes adorn the interior
Bone Chapel (Capela dos Ossos): a small open-air shrine built of human bones sits in the courtyard as a memento mori
Sacred art museum (treasury): displays statues, altarpieces, chalices and religious paintings
White storks: storks nest year-round on the tower and rooftops of the old city, and you can often hear their distinctive bill-clacking
Good to know
RulesThe combined ticket (nave, bell tower, museum treasury and bone shrine) is recently listed at around €5, with a reduced rate of about €3.50 for students and seniors, sold at the entrance; confirm the latest price before visiting
MannersAs an active cathedral, covered shoulders and knees are expected. Carry a light scarf or shawl to cover up, and keep quiet and limit photography during Mass or services
SeasonOpening hours vary by season: roughly weekdays 10:00-18:00/18:30 (shorter until 17:00 in winter), Saturday mornings only (about 09:30-13:00), and closed Sundays; always check current times
SafetyThe tower staircase is narrow and steep, and the terrace is an open lookout with low railings, so watch your footing and supervise children closely
SafetyThe Old Town is generally safe, but in peak summer pickpocketing can occur in nearby crowded spots such as the marina, train and bus stations, so keep bags and valuables secure
Practical info
The cathedral sits in the heart of the Old Town, within walking distance of Faro's train and bus stations. Fees, hours and dress rules can change locally, so verify the latest details just before your visit.
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