Porto’s Cathedral of the Assumption of Our Lady is not the largest or most beautiful in the world, though its admirers may not agree—but it has striking features that make it memorable. Among them, the large open four-sided skylight that crowns the church’s crossing, rather than a spire. It spills light from above at the end of the long, narrow nave, almost calling visitors to come forward toward the altar.
The Romanesque building dates to the 12th century, shortly after Christian kings conquered the former Moorish territories and created Portugal. It has had many additions and changes since, but has kept most of its general character, although with the original apse replaced by a Baroque one in the 17th century.
