Porto Cathedral: Pilgrim's Way & Blue and White Tiles

**Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto)** is one of Portugal's oldest and most symbolic historical landmarks in Porto, blending Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles, bearing witness to the city's thousand years of history. It only costs 3 euros to enter, with free access to the treasury; you can freely photograph the blue and white tiled cloister, and you can also purchase pilgrim's way booklets and shells (queue at the ticket office to buy). You absolutely must buy a ticket to enter!!! ### **History and Architecture** - **Construction period**: Originally built in the 12th century (around 1110), underwent multiple expansions and renovations. - **Core styles**: - **Romanesque foundation**: Thick stone walls, defensive towers, and rose windows preserve the rugged character of a medieval military monastery. - **Gothic cloister** (14th century): Elegant pointed arches and vine-patterned stone carvings in the cloister, walls covered with blue and white tiles (added in the 18th century). - **Baroque elements**: Silver altarpiece (17th century), gilded woodcarvings and painted ceilings, showcasing the luxury of Portugal's Golden Age.