The Cathedral of São Sebastião (São Sebastião being the city's patron saint) stands on the Praça da Independência in the heart of the historic centre. The building is an imposing Neo-Gothic structure with twin towers and a richly decorated interior, begun in the early 20th century during the coffee-boom years when the region was generating extraordinary wealth. Construction continued for three decades, which is reflected in the slightly uneven mix of styles in the interior.
The interior is decorated with stained-glass windows imported from Europe and a series of painted panels depicting scenes from the life of the saint. The floor plan is a traditional Latin cross, and the nave is generous enough to feel genuinely grand. The cathedral remains the heart of Catholic life in the city, and Sunday morning mass is attended by a substantial congregation. It is the obvious starting point for any walk through the centre.