The grandiose façade facing the south side of the cathedral (Sé) is the former residence of Porto's bishops, the Episcopal Palace. What stands today dates back to 1737 and is attributed to the master architect Nicolau Nasoni. However, fragments of a former 13th-century building were unearthed here. Entrance through the elaborate baroque and rococo-styled frontage is through an ornate arch flanked by pilasters and topped with a decorative pediment containing the coat of arms of Bishop D. Rafael de Mendonça. After a long period of closure, the palace is now open to the public and makes a fantastic addition to a visit to the cathedral district.
Discover the luxury the bishops of Porto allow themselves with a guided tour inside. Commencing at the heart of the building at the magnificent monumental granite staircase festooned with carved religious iconography, the tour proceeds into the Hall of Mirrors, the Coat of Arms and the Chapel, until you reach the Audience Hall, which is still utilised today by Porto's bishop. From the windows in this room, you can marvel at the views of the Cathedral terrace outside.
Continue on to the Throne Room (Sala do Trono) where the walls, carpet and furnishings are strikingly red, before entering the room which houses temporary exhibitions. Before leaving, you are directed to a gallery that overlooks Porto, Vila Nova de Gaia, the Luiz I Bridge and the River Douro.
Monday - Saturday 10h00 - 13h00/14h00 - 19h00, Sunday: CLOSED
€5.00 Porto Card: -20%
Paço do Bispo, Main Staircase
São Bento Train Station | Timetable CP Website | |
Bus: 6, 20, 35, 37, 52 and 78 | Timetable STCP Website | |
Metro: São Bento (Line D) | Timetable Metro do Porto Website | |
22 Old Tram: Carmo - Batalha | Timetable STCP Website |
Contact Details
Terreiro da Se, Porto, 4050-573, Portugal. |
41° 08' 34.1" N | 08° 36' 40.3" W
+351 223 392 348 | Website
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