Old Cathedral of the Holy Name of Jesus, Bragança

The Old Cathedral of the Holy Name of Jesus, known locally as Sé Velha de Bragança, is a captivating historical and architectural gem in the heart of Bragança, Portugal. This magnificent structure, with its rich history and stunning design, offers visitors a unique glimpse into the past and an opportunity to explore one of the region's most significant landmarks.

The History of the Old Cathedral of the Holy Name of Jesus

The origins of the Old Cathedral of the Holy Name of Jesus date back to the 16th century. It was initially constructed as part of a monastic complex commissioned by Teodosius I, the Duke of Bragança, on land that belonged to the Benedictine Monastery of São Salvador in nearby Castro de Avelãs. The original intention was to establish a convent for the Poor Clares, but due to a lack of nuns, the complex was handed over to the Jesuit order in the 1560s, who transformed it into a college dedicated to the Holy Name of Jesus.

In 1759, the Jesuit order was suppressed in Portugal, leading to their expulsion from the country. Subsequently, the church was elevated to the status of a cathedral when Pope Clement XIV established the Diocese of Bragança in 1770, splitting it from the Diocese of Miranda do Douro. The surrounding monastic buildings were repurposed to house a seminary for priests. The Old Cathedral remained the episcopal seat until 2001, when the new Cathedral of Our Lady Queen (Nueva Catedral de Nossa Senhora Rainha) was consecrated. Today, the church is dedicated to Saint John the Baptist and serves as a parish church, while the former monastic buildings have been converted into a cultural center, city library, and music school.

Exploring the Exterior

The exterior of the Old Cathedral of the Holy Name of Jesus is a blend of Renaissance and Baroque architectural styles, reflecting its historical evolution. The most prominent feature is the square bell tower on the eastern side, which was raised by an additional story in the 1930s to accommodate a clock. This tower, with its elegant simplicity, stands as a beacon of the church's historical significance.

The church's northern façade is adorned with a round-arched portal flanked by pilasters with composite capitals and an entablature. Above the portal, in a niche, stands a statue of the Madonna and Child, a testament to the religious devotion that has characterized this site for centuries. The portal itself is an exquisite example of Renaissance craftsmanship, with subtle Baroque elements that add to its charm.

The Interior Splendor

Stepping inside the Old Cathedral of the Holy Name of Jesus, visitors are greeted by a three-aisled nave divided into four bays. The first three bays are covered with ribbed vaults, while the bay above the organ gallery features a coffered ceiling. The two-bay apse boasts a stunning star vault, adding to the cathedral's ethereal atmosphere.

The main and side altars, crafted in the Baroque style, date back to the 18th century and are adorned with intricate carvings and gilded details. These altars, with their ornate designs, serve as focal points for worship and reflection, inviting visitors to pause and appreciate the artistry and devotion that went into their creation.

The Sacristy

The sacristy, remodeled in the 17th century in the Baroque style, is another highlight of the Old Cathedral. It features a coffered wooden ceiling with oil paintings depicting scenes from the life of Saint Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Jesuit order. The intricately carved and gilded back panel of the sacristy cupboard also incorporates paintings of episodes from the lives of Ignatius of Loyola and Francis of Assisi, adding a touch of artistic and spiritual richness to this sacred space.

The Cloister

Accessed through the sacristy, the Renaissance-style cloister dates back to the 16th century and is a tranquil haven within the cathedral complex. The cloister has a square layout with two stories, each featuring five bays. The lower story opens to the courtyard with round-arched double arcades supported by slender columns with Tuscan capitals. The upper story is enclosed with rectangular windows divided by a central column, creating a harmonious blend of light and shadow.

Walking through the cloister, visitors can imagine the peaceful lives of the monks who once inhabited this space, finding solace and inspiration in its serene beauty.

In conclusion, the Old Cathedral of the Holy Name of Jesus, or Sé Velha de Bragança, is not just a historical monument; it is a living testament to the rich religious and cultural heritage of Bragança. Its walls echo with stories of devotion, resilience, and artistic excellence, making it an unmissable destination for anyone visiting this charming Portuguese city. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or a spiritual seeker, the Old Cathedral offers a profound and enriching experience that will leave a lasting impression.