This is another ancient building - it dates from 1189 but has been extensively rebuilt and renovated since then. The guidebook we had described it as fairly dull, but I think this is an injustice. The eastern end of the church, behind the alter, is supposed to be gothic, but appeared to me to be a cross between gothic and Norman architecture. If you have seen any norman churches - all those I've seen are in England - you will notice the similarity. Like the White Chapel in the Tower of London, the area behind the alter in Silves is curved, but then rises in gothic arches above. It's a very interesting combination, and I enjoyed looking at it. The whole church is much less decorated than many Catholic Cathedrals, and the bare stone has a dignity about it.

Entrance is free, but donations are requested for the upkeep of the building. Mass is said daily at 9am, and three times on Sunday mornings, according to a notice on the door.

Outside the Cathedral, the cobbled streets of Silves wind down the hill. We were there between 4 and 7pm, and the August light bathed the whole town in golden light. The cobbles outside the Cathedral, shiny with centuries of wear, reflected the light beautifully and turned into a silvery path, which looked almost like water. It was an amazing sight, and a very good afternoon.