The Beiras


Powerful in its sobriety, this grey Gothic edifice looms heavily over the central square. The earliest parts of the cathedral date from 1390 but it's dotted with Manueline and Renaissance ornamentation. The most striking feature in the immense, granite interior is the four-storey Renaissance altarpiece attributed to Jean de Rouen (João de Ruão).

Also impressive are the bird's-eye views of the city and surrounding landscape from the rooftop terrace, accessible by way of a narrow spiral staircase.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby The Beiras attractions

1. Torre dos Ferreiros

0.06 MILES

A local landmark, this robust rectangular tower is one of the most visible features of the town's medieval defences. It was originally built to protect a…

2. Old Town

0.1 MILES

A handsome quarter of cobblestone lanes and huddled houses, Guarda's hilltop centre fans out from Praça Luís de Camões. This sloping square is flanked by…

3. Porta d'El Rei

0.1 MILES

This arched gateway framed one of the original portals in Guarda's vast defensive walls. It connected the town with routes to Covilhã and Celorico, from…

4. Paço da Cultura

0.11 MILES

Adjacent to the Museu da Guarda, the Paço da Cultura stages temporary exhibitions in a suite of rooms off an 18th-century courtyard.

5. Museu da Guarda

0.11 MILES

Housed in the severe 17th-century Episcopal Seminary, Guarda's main museum showcases an eclectic collection of archaeological finds, artworks and early…

6. Torre de Menagem

0.13 MILES

This 14th-century tower, originally the keep of Guarda's castle, stands on the highest point in town. You can't go into the tower but even from the base…

7. Porta da Erva

0.14 MILES

One of several city gates, the Porta da Erva was constructed in the 13th century. It was originally known as the Estrela Gate.

8. Castelo de Linhares

10.14 MILES

Visible for miles around, Linhares' 13th-century castle is a formidable sight, with its two crenellated keeps and impregnable walls. Not a lot remains…