Religious works
MONASTERY OF SANTA MARÍA DE OIA
This former Cistercian monastery by the sea, declared a Historic-Artistic Monument, stands out for its Baroque façade and its defensive history against marit...
Located in a privileged setting on this rugged coast and declared a Historic-Artistic Monument in 1931, the Monastery of Santa María de Oia is the only monastery of the Cistercian order situated on the seafront. This architectural ensemble is the result of the merging, in 1137, of three small monasteries in the region governed by the Benedictine rule and under the protection of Alfonso VII. Its consecration to the Cistercian order in 1185 did not only influence the monastery’s building works, but gave it personality and artistic character.
The church, built between the 12th and 13Ith centuries, dominates the landscape with its powerful Baroque façade, highlighted by its statue of the Virgin of the Sea, although in its interior it maintains the characteristics of Cistercian Gothic.
In the sixteenth century, the church’s choir loft was built and the royal cloister was modified by adding a floor. In the seventeenth century, several building works were carried out to fortify the monastery—building the surrounding walls, the beach wall, as well as the enclosure that surrounds the forest and the weapons’ square. In the 18th century, the bell-tower, the current façade and the naves that make up the space currently known as the patio of the orange trees were built.
The monastery was an important defensive bulwark against constant maritime invasions. Throughout the sixteenth century, Oia was equipped with artillery and other weapons to prevent pirates from disembarking. Thereby, in 1624, the monks fought against Turkish pirates attacking two ships, one French and the other English. These courageous acts made them worthy of the title of "artillery monks" and subsequently, Felipe IV bestowed the title of Imperial and Royal Monastery.
In 1835, Cistercian life came to an end due to the confiscation of the monastery, which became private property through auction. In 1838 the parish of Santa María was constituted, and the monastic church became the parochial seat. From 1910 to 1931, it was rented to the Portuguese Jesuits and during the civil war it was used as a concentration camp for Republican prisoners.
At present, the monastery is a private property.
The church, built between the 12th and 13Ith centuries, dominates the landscape with its powerful Baroque façade, highlighted by its statue of the Virgin of the Sea, although in its interior it maintains the characteristics of Cistercian Gothic.
In the sixteenth century, the church’s choir loft was built and the royal cloister was modified by adding a floor. In the seventeenth century, several building works were carried out to fortify the monastery—building the surrounding walls, the beach wall, as well as the enclosure that surrounds the forest and the weapons’ square. In the 18th century, the bell-tower, the current façade and the naves that make up the space currently known as the patio of the orange trees were built.
The monastery was an important defensive bulwark against constant maritime invasions. Throughout the sixteenth century, Oia was equipped with artillery and other weapons to prevent pirates from disembarking. Thereby, in 1624, the monks fought against Turkish pirates attacking two ships, one French and the other English. These courageous acts made them worthy of the title of "artillery monks" and subsequently, Felipe IV bestowed the title of Imperial and Royal Monastery.
In 1835, Cistercian life came to an end due to the confiscation of the monastery, which became private property through auction. In 1838 the parish of Santa María was constituted, and the monastic church became the parochial seat. From 1910 to 1931, it was rented to the Portuguese Jesuits and during the civil war it was used as a concentration camp for Republican prisoners.
At present, the monastery is a private property.
MONASTERY OF SANTA MARÍA DE OIA
This former Cistercian monastery by the sea, declared a Historic-Artistic Monument, stands out for its Baroque façade and its defensive history against marit...
Cross of Esmoleiro
Visit an ancient transept from 1764, with a unique inscription and a representation of the three Souls. Admire its Ionic design and simple quadrangular cross.
SAN COSME FOUNTAIN
This port retains a historic spring still in use, famous for its supposed healing properties and annual religious celebrations.
CROSS OF PORTIÑO
This ancient cross of the "De Cruz" type is notable for its unique design with a quadrangular platform, octagonal pedestal and rhomboidal cross decorated wit...
VÍA CRUCIS CALVARIO DA LOUREZA
Discover a unique Calvary at the top of a parish church, with an ornate central cross and an ancient Stations of the Cross. There is also a chapel dedicated...
SAN MAMEDE DE LOUREZA
Visit a former medieval monastery with an 18th century church, home to a painted stone pulpit and twin baroque altarpieces.
SAN MAMEDE DE PEDORNES
Discover a historic church linked to a former monastery, with a magnificent coat of arms and interesting altarpieces. Admire a group of ancient crosses in th...
SANTA UXÍA DE MOUGÁS
Discover a unique church where Romanesque and Baroque art merge, with impressive altarpieces and sculptures. Visit in December for a local festival.
SAN MIGUEL DE VILADESUSO
Visit a 19th century church with a rectangular floor plan and attached tower, and enjoy the local festivities on 29 September.
SAN PEDRO DE BURGUEIRA
Discover a 19th century church with a central bell tower and figures of San Xoán Bautista, San Pedro and the Virgin of the Rosary. Admire its barrel vault an...
SAN SEBASTIÁN HERMITAGE
Discover an ancient hermitage rebuilt in 1770, originally dedicated to Santo Antón, now home to an image of San Sebastián transferred from another neighbourh...
PLAZA DEL CAMPO CROSS
Discover a historic crossing in a newly renovated square, whose mysterious history dates back to 1808, although it appears to be much older.
A Camboa
Specialising in grilled meats and cod, Portuguese-style cod.
Hotel A Raiña **
Located in a rural setting, just 100 metres from the sea and a 12th century monastery. Close to Baiona, A Guarda, a ferry to Portugal and Peinador airport.
Hotel-Restaurant Costa Verde ***
A cosy place with 23 rooms, it offers a homely experience with traditional Galician cuisine. Located near the Atlantic Ocean, 25 minutes from Vigo.
Glasgow – Hotel-Restaurant ***
Enjoy stunning views of the Atlantic, comfort and a pleasant stay in a hotel 30 km from a major city. Its marine and local gastronomy stands out.
Camping O Muiño 1ª
Enjoy an unforgettable holiday in a unique natural environment, between the sea and the mountains, with quality services and a wide range of leisure and ente...
Hotel-Restaurant O Peñasco**
A Riña
Cafeteria, snacks, tapas and daily menu. They have wifi service for customers, parking and terrace. Lottery stamping.
Bar Salinas
Café Bar Puertas
Café bar, beer and wine bar. They also offer snacks.
Bar Rocha
Bar Terraza do Mosteiro
Montes de Oia Community Bar, located in the Casa Cultural de Sta. María de Oia
Aguncheiro Hostel
This family-run business offers accommodation with sea views, bar, restaurant and green area. Ideal for nature and outdoor sports lovers, and close to emblem...
Bar Fernández
Bar O Porto
Cafetería Sal de Mar
Casa Puertas
Restored 17th century rural accommodation, located in a harbour, 50 metres from the beach and a monastery, with services and amenities.
Bar El Puente
Camping Mougás 1ª
Enjoy a unique holiday in a natural environment between sea and mountains, with hiking, petroglyphs and endless views. Ideal for families, friends and couples.
Budiño de Serraseca
Discover a historic country house, renovated and extended since the 18th century, which offers a unique experience of rural tourism with a touch of history.
Estrela Hostel
A cosy retreat in a rural setting, ideal for pilgrims and travellers. It offers sea views, comfortable accommodation, kitchen, wifi, and personal development...
Camino Portugués Oia Hostel
New accommodation on the coast, with 20 beds and private bunk beds, as well as rooms with terrace and sea views. Located between A Guarda and Baiona.