The construction of Igreja Matriz (Matriz Chruch) in Viana do Castelo dates back to the first half of the 15th century and was influenced by Gothic style. In November of 1977, the local people saw their aspirations met when Pope Paul VI authorized the creation of the Diocese of Viana do Castelo, thus elevating the then Matriz Church to Cathedral. Its prominent interior is composed of three luxuriously ornamented naves and holds a collection of painted and carved tombs of local nobility.