The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, or Sé Catedral, is the spiritual heart of the Madeira archipelago. Classified as a National Monument since 1910, its construction began in the late 15th century under King Manuel I. It stands as one of the few structures in Funchal that has remained virtually intact since the early days of Portuguese colonisation. Its architecture is a rare and beautiful blend of Gothic and Manueline styles, featuring a world-renowned ceiling of carved cedar wood and intricate silver liturgical items. As the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Funchal, the Cathedral is the primary location for the island’s most significant religious ceremonies and high-profile Catholic funeral masses. For many locals and families in the diaspora, the Sé represents the ultimate site of tradition and memorial honor. Whether you are visiting to admire the historic altarpiece or attending a service for a loved one, the Cathedral offers a sense of continuity that spans five centuries of Madeiran history. RIP Madeira provides essential details for the Sé Catedral to help families coordinate with the Diocese for funeral arrangements and to pay tribute within the island’s most venerable religious institution.