10 Things to Do in Bissau Cathedral (Bissau), Guinea-Bissau
Bissau Cathedral, located in the capital city of Bissau, is one of the most impressive and historically significant churches in Guinea-Bissau. Built in the 18th century by the Portuguese, the cathedral is a stunning example of Baroque architecture and is the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Bissau. Visitors to the cathedral will find plenty of things to do and explore, from admiring its magnificent architecture to learning about its long and rich history. Here are 10 of the best things to do in Bissau Cathedral.
1. Admire the Architecture: Bissau Cathedral is a stunning example of Baroque architecture, with its ornate façade and intricate carvings. The cathedral was built in the 18th century and is the only surviving example of Portuguese Baroque architecture in Guinea-Bissau.
2. Visit the Crypt: The crypt of Bissau Cathedral is a fascinating place to explore. The crypt contains the remains of several prominent figures, including the first bishop of Bissau, Dom João de Sousa, who died in 1717.
3. Attend a Mass: Bissau Cathedral holds regular masses, which are open to the public. The cathedral is also the site of special services and events throughout the year, such as the annual Corpus Christi procession.
4. Explore the Museum: Bissau Cathedral houses a small museum, which displays artifacts related to the history and culture of the city. The museum also contains a collection of religious artwork, including statues and paintings.
5. Climb the Tower: The bell tower of the cathedral is open to the public and offers spectacular views of the city. The tower is the tallest building in Bissau and offers stunning views of the city and its surrounding landscape.
6. Attend a Concert: Bissau Cathedral often hosts concerts and other musical performances. The acoustics of the cathedral make it an ideal venue for these events, and it is a great place to experience the city’s vibrant music scene.
7. Visit the Graveyard: The graveyard of Bissau Cathedral is a peaceful and tranquil place to explore. The graveyard contains the graves of many prominent figures, including the first bishop of Bissau, Dom João de Sousa.
8. Attend a Wedding: Bissau Cathedral is a popular venue for weddings and other special occasions. The cathedral is a beautiful and romantic setting for a wedding, and it is a great place to capture some stunning photos.
9. Take a Guided Tour: Guided tours of Bissau Cathedral are available, which provide a great way to learn more about the history and architecture of the cathedral. The guided tours are usually held in English and Portuguese.
10. Enjoy the Surroundings: Bissau Cathedral is located in a beautiful area of the city, surrounded by lush green gardens and peaceful parks. The cathedral is a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of Bissau.
Bissau Cathedral is an impressive and historically significant church in Guinea-Bissau. From admiring its architecture to attending a mass or a concert, there are plenty of things to do and explore in and around the cathedral. Whether you are a history buff or just looking for a peaceful place to relax, Bissau Cathedral is a great place to visit.