Madeira.Vacations

Sé Cathedral

A late-15th-century cathedral with a Mudéjar cedar ceiling.

Stone facade and bell tower of Funchal's Sé Cathedral
Photo: Diego Delso · CC BY-SA 4.0

Consecrated in 1514 and built with local stone and Madeiran cedar, the Sé is the oldest major building in the city. The knotwork ceiling, carved in Moorish-influenced style, is the reason to step inside.

What to look at

The ceiling above the nave is inlaid cedar with ivory, and it has survived largely unaltered for five centuries. The gilded altarpiece behind the high altar is Flemish-influenced and from roughly the same period.

Entry is free; it is a working cathedral, so services take priority and modest dress is expected.

Local tips

  • — The square outside is the best place in the centre for a coffee stop.

Guided trips here

Bookable tours that include or focus on this spot.

  • Funchal waterfront and old town at golden hour
    2 hours Funchal

    Funchal Old Town & Monte Toboggan Tour

    A private tuk-tuk through the painted doors of the Zona Velha, up to Monte and the famous wicker toboggan ride back down.

    from €80

    Check availability
  • Private Tour Nun's Valley Halfday in Madeira
    3 hours Madeira 5.0(46)

    Private Tour Nun's Valley Halfday

    Our half day starts at Pico dos Barcelos viewpoint, a very nice view of all Funchal, where we can see different locations of the city and have an amazing sight for lovely pictures.

    from €160

    Check availability
  • Funchal & Monte: Private Sidecar Tour with Toboggan Stop in Madeira
    2 hours Funchal 5.0(35)

    Funchal & Monte: Private Sidecar Tour with Toboggan Stop

    Embark on an unforgettable journey through Funchal's downtown with a passionate local guide, cruising in style on a classic motorcycle with a sidecar.

    from €110

    Check availability
  • Funchal highlights 5h Private Tour in Madeira in Madeira
    5 hours Funchal 5.0(30)

    Funchal highlights 5h Private Tour in Madeira

    Experience the essence of Madeira in just 5 hours. This immersive tour takes you through breathtaking landscapes, vibrant local culture, and scenic viewpoints, offering a true taste of island's unique charm.

    from €200

    Check availability
  • Funchal Christmas lights sightseeing night tour in Madeira
    1.2 hours Funchal 4.9(79)

    Funchal Christmas lights sightseeing night tour

    Enjoy the Christmas decorations all around Funchal. View the magnificent light decorations. Experience the nostalgia of our classic cars.

    from €35

    Check availability
  • Nun's Valley & Sea Cliff - Half Day - Shared Tour in Madeira
    4 hours Madeira 4.9(49)

    Nun's Valley & Sea Cliff - Half Day - Shared Tour

    We invite you to explore some of the most isolated places on the island, without straying too far from Funchal.

    from €47

    Check availability

Stay nearby

Where to base yourself for this part of the island.

Nearby

Within a short drive, so they combine into one day.

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