Portuguese Cathedral | 7QX5+97M, Derb El Kaouss, Safi, Morocco
Name
Portuguese Cathedral
Address
7QX5+97M, Derb El Kaouss, Safi, Morocco, Safi, Marrakech-Safi
Location
Discover more in SafiReviews — Portuguese Cathedral
The tiny door was still closed and repairs seem to be ongoing. Great to see what I could though of this fantastic price of colonial history. The area roundabouts the cathedrals base is very interesting as is the whole medina area
Fantastic old medina living it’s own life.
**A Hidden Gem in Safi!** The **Portuguese Cathedral in Safi** is a stunning piece of history that takes you back to the early 16th century. Built during the Portuguese occupation, its Gothic architecture is breathtaking, with grand arches and intricate stone carvings that showcase medieval European craftsmanship. Although no longer used as a church, the cathedral stands as a cultural and historical monument, blending seamlessly into the Moroccan surroundings. It's a must-visit for history enthusiasts and anyone looking to explore Safi's unique heritage. Don’t miss this hidden gem if you’re in the area!
Still closed for repairs. A walk round the surrounding streets still has character and we enjoyed pondering the history as we walked. Far better than learning from a textbook even if it's not accessible right now!
Opposite the entrance to the Great Mosque on Rue du Souq, one can find clearly signed ruined cathedral, that was built in 1519 in the Manueline (Portuguese late Gothic) style. It was the first Portuguese cathedral outside Portugal, and it presents the first gothic structure built in Africa. Construction was never completed, and most of the structure was demolished after the departure of the Portuguese King Manuel in 1541. All that remains are parts of the choir and a side chapel. Huge part of the cathedral is behind the wall and nothing left of it, houses of the old city was build on the place of the main cathedral hall. We visited this interesting piece of architecture specially because many of its still recognizable elements. The most interesting element is probably the vaulting, whose ribs support nine bosses with designs that tell part of the story of the visit of the Portuguese to the city. On the central boss is the shield of King Manuel, others are decorated with the Cross of the Order of Christ, the armillary sphere, another with the episcopal coat of arms of Safi’s bishop João Subtil, and another with the keys of Saint Peter. Three are decorated with naturalistic leaves and one of which the original design has disappeared. Place is very small but very interesting piece of history to visit in Safi.
Closed, looks not good, it is gradually being destroyed.
