Art and spirituality: monasteries and churches of the Eume

Throughout the territory, the temples have witnessed centuries of faith, art and monastic life.

The monasteries and the churches of the Eume region not only narrate the religious history of the place, but are integrated with the environment, becoming unique spaces where architecture and nature live together in perfect harmony.

From Romanesque constructions on top of hills to monasteries nestled in lush Atlantic forests, this spiritual route is also an aesthetic, historical and emotional experience.

Located in the heart of the Fragas del Eume Natural Park, he Caaveiro Monastery It is one of the monumental jewels of Galicia. Founded in the 10th century, it was a Benedictine enclave and, subsequently, Agustino. Its site, on a promontory between rivers and leafy vegetation, makes it a magical place.

From their viewpoints you can contemplate fragras in all their splendor. The set retains several original elements: the church, the sacristy, the refectory and the remains of the cloister. In addition, the recent rehabilitation has made it possible to visit the interior and enjoy guided tours.

Don't miss it!: Access on foot or with your bicycle from the Park Interpretation Center. Ideal to combine with a hiking route.

Monastery of San Xoán de Caaveiro

Located in the Queixeiro Parish, this impressive Cistercian monastery From the 12th century surprising by its monumental baroque facade decorated with black and black striped marble, a unique architectural detail in Galicia.

In its time of splendor, the monastery was an important economic and spiritual center. Although today is in a state of semi -rruin, a good part of the Church, the monastic units and the old cloister are preserved. Its surroundings, between mountains and silence, reinforces its spiritual character.

Curious fact!: Inside, the altarpiece of the Virgen de la Cela is venerated, which according to popular traditions, appeared on a nearby mountain causing a miraculous source to spray. In addition, a few years ago the monastery was about to become a luxury spa, although the project never materialized.

Monastery of Santa María de Monfero

This little Romanesque church of the twelfth century rises over the Monte Breamo, visually dominating the Ría de Ares. Built in granitic stalls, its sober beauty contrasts with the immensity of the landscape.

The temple is linked to popular legends and is the scene of the Romería de San Miguel, one of the most emblematic parties in Pontedeume. Its conservation and environment make it a jewel of Galician religious architecture.

Did you know?: During the pilgrimage of San Miguel, the tradition commands to give nine times in silence to the chapel to "bounce as Meigas" (scare away the witches). Although some versions speak of three or seven laps, the important thing is silence ... and faith.

Ermita de San Miguel de Breamo

Located in the historical center of Pontedeume, the Santiago Church It is one of the most emblematic temples of the town. Its origin dates back to the 16th century, when Fernando de Andrade He ordered the main chapel as a family pantheon. However, it was in the 18th century when the archbishop Bartolomé Rajoy and Losada He promoted the reconstruction of the temple, giving rise to the church as we know it today.

The baroque facade, with three doors, is crowned by the Andrade shield and an equestrian image of Santiago Apostle. Inside the Renaissance altarpiece stands out, with paintings of the passion cycle.

In addition to its artistic and architectural value, the Church is a point of passage of the English road, which reinforces its character as a temple open to the traveler and spiritual recollection.

Advice: Visit it during a walk through the old town and subume in the medieval legacy of Pontedeume.

Santiago Church

Founded in 1538 by Fernando de Andrade, he San Agustín Convent Extramuros of the town was built, next to the Eume River. From the original set, part of the Renaissance cloister and the church are preserved, while the main facade, amended in the 18th century, responds to the sober baroque style, with two towers flanking the cover and an image of St. Augustine in the central niche.

For almost three centuries he was home to a community of Augustinian friars. After its closure as a convent, the building had various civil and military uses. Since the 80s of the twentieth century, he hosts the Pontedeume culture house, being today a living space dedicated to cultural activity.

Recommended Plan: Come to visit your sacred art collection and consult your programming of exhibitions and cultural events.

San Agustín Convent

This little parish hides one of the most unique cemeteries in Galicia. On their tombs, dozens of marine shells of scallops, cockles, clams are surprised ... carefully placed. The origin of this tradition that is still alive generation after generation remains a mystery.

Some believe that everything began as a simple aesthetic gesture; Others, that perhaps some pilgrim left a shell and with it began the ritual, but the truth is that there is no close way from Santiago. Be that as it may, what remains is the care and pride with which the neighbors maintain this unique custom, especially on dates indicated as the All Hallows, when the cemetery shines between polished shells and fresh flowers.

San Pedro de Eume Parish

As you pass through Cabanas you can see the Church of San Martiño do Porto, an XV temple that combines a sober Renaissance head with an elegant baroque facade. Its interior, with an elongated nave and four sections marked by pillars, surprises with its harmony and dynamism.

Outside, the image of San Martiño on horseback highlights sharing its cape, chaired by a sword with centennial bells. Although it is usually closed outside the worship, its imposing presence and the environment deserve the visit.

Church of San Martiño do Porto

Explore these temples is also to travel a story of recollection, art and spirituality that remains alive. Whether you are looking for silence, and if you attract heritage or simply want to know another face of the Eume, this selection of the most prominent monasteries and churches in the region offers a different experience, loaded with beauty and introspection.