Museu de Arte Sacra – Tesouro da Catedral de Viseu
Treasury of the Sé de Viseu, housed in the upper choir and the upper cloister of the cathedral, with sacred art from the 12th to the 20th century.
Have only individual sections read aloud
About the museum
The Tesouro de Arte Sacra, also called the Tesouro-Museu da Catedral de Viseu, was created by Decree-Law No. 20.803 of 21 January 1932. The decree provided that the objects of worship, or intended for worship, held in the Museu Grão Vasco and coming from the Sé de Viseu should be brought together there.
The museum is part of the cathedral and occupies the second floor, with the upper choir and three rooms in one wing of the upper cloister, including the Chapter Room (Sala do Cabido) and two rooms with medieval architectural elements. Two other spaces on the route serve as viewpoints over the city of Viseu. At the entrance to the cathedral, in the former baptistery, there is a reception area with 18th-century Baroque azulejo panels, where information and tickets are available.
The collection brings together pieces from various periods and types, from the 12th to the 20th century, such as a gospel book, reliquary caskets, monstrances, chalices and nativity scenes. The route is organised by themes, including Mary, music in the praise of God, Holy Week and the celebration of faith. Some pieces have been lent to exhibitions in other countries.
Highlights
- Illuminated gospel book, c. 1179–1213
- Reliquary caskets and enamelled pieces from the 12th and 13th centuries
- Gilded silver monstrance of 1533, a gift from Bishop D. Miguel da Silva
- Upper choir and rooms of the cathedral’s upper cloister
- Viewpoints over the city of Viseu
Permanent exhibition
- Tesouro da Catedral de Viseu – Sacred art from the 12th to the 20th century, displayed in the upper choir and the upper cloister of the cathedral, organised in thematic sections.
- Founded
- 1932
- Operated by
- Diocese de Viseu
Admission & discounts
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Accessibility
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Kids & families
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Getting there & parking
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Amenities & dining
- Museum shop
The reception area sells religious items, goods bearing the identity of the cathedral and the museum, and publications of the Diocese.
Events & venue rental
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Plan your visit
| Guided tours | yes |
|---|---|
| Good to know | Guided tours of the cathedral and the museum can be booked at the reception area. |





