Which cathedral in Portugal is traditionally regarded as the country’s oldest?

Braga Cathedral is traditionally regarded as Portugal’s oldest cathedral.

The cathedral stands in Braga, a city with an exceptionally long Christian history. The Diocese of Braga traces its origins to late antiquity, and the medieval cathedral was developed after Christian rule was restored in the region. Construction of the present complex began in the 11th century, although later rebuilding added Romanesque, Gothic, Manueline, and Baroque elements.

Because the building has been altered repeatedly, Braga Cathedral does not appear as a single, uniform medieval style. Its complex includes chapels, cloisters, tombs, and richly decorated interiors. It also reflects Braga’s importance as the religious centre of northern Portugal.

The phrase “oldest cathedral” refers to the historic cathedral foundation and seat of the archbishop, not necessarily to every surviving stone in the current structure. Porto, Lisbon, and Évora also have medieval cathedrals, but Braga’s ecclesiastical history is traditionally considered the oldest in Portugal.