The Chapter of the Cathedral of Évora was established by the Bishop D. Paio, on 24 April 1200, being thus, one of the most ancient institutions of the city.
Coat-of-arms of the Chapter, 17th century
From its origins, it is in charge of ensuring the worship in the Cathedral, the mother-church of the Diocese and of collaborating with the Bishop in the administration of the Diocese. It became the institution with the most notoriety in the city, due to its religious, cultural and social activity.
Up until the 19th and early 20th centuries, when the political power took over its properties and possessions, it was the most renowned institution in life of the city.
The accumulation of such a highly artistic and cultural value, which can be seen in the Museum of Religious Art, is owed to the Chapter.