Metropolitan Cathedral
Praça da Sé, Fortaleza, Ceará, 60055-150
The third largest cathedral in Brazil took 40 years to build—construction began on the Gothic-Roman structure in 1939 and continued until late 1979. Designed by French architect George Mounier and said to be inspired by Germany’s Cologne Cathedral, the Metropolitan Cathedral remains one of Fortaleza’s most distinctive landmarks.
The basics
Don’t be deceived by the imposing concrete masonry on the cathedral’s exterior — inside, the Metropolitan Cathedral is light and airy, adorned with magnificent stained glass windows. Built to seat 5,000 worshippers, visitors to the cathedral can visit the Chapel of St. Joseph, the Patron Saint of the Brazilian state of Ceará, and the small chapel dedicated to Our Lady of the Assumption, the Patron Saint of Fortaleza.
Other notable features include the cathedral’s central altar, which was brought over from Verona, Italy, and the Crypt of the Adolescents, which contains six alters devoted to saints who died in their teenage years. The depiction of Jesus in the crypt altar shows him as an adolescent as well.
Things to know before you go
For the most impressive views, visit on a sunny day when the stained glass windows illuminate the interiors.
There is no admission fee to visit the Metropolitan Cathedral.
Mass is held daily except for Mondays at the cathedral.
How to get there
The Metropolitan Cathedral is located along Rua Sobral in downtown Fortaleza (Centro), right by the Central Market. The closest subway station is José de Alencar, about a 15-minute walk away.
When to get there
The Metropolitan Cathedral is open daily except for Mondays, although opening times may vary. Mass services are held thrice daily from Monday through Saturday and several times daily on Sunday.
Sights and landmarks of Fortaleza
As one of Brazil’s largest cities, it’s worth exploring Fortaleza as part of a tour, especially if you’re short on time. Start by taking in monuments such as the Iracema Statue and the President Castelo Branco Mausoleum, then stroll along the palm-fringed Avenida Beira Mar promenade, take in the views from the Ponte de Ingleses pier, and cool off with a swim at Iracema Beach. Other popular sights include the Museum of Ceara, the Cachaça Museum, the Central Market, and Futuro Beach.
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