Monasterio de San Martin Pinario

About

The Monastery and Church of San Martiño Pinario is one of the most significant baroque landmarks in Galicia, tracing its origins back to the 9th century when Benedictine monks settled near the cathedral’s Corticela chapel. The complex, rebuilt extensively between the 16th and 18th centuries, now houses a Diocesan Museum that showcases a rich collection of religious paintings, sculptures, vestments and an impressive rib‑bed dome crafted by Bartolomé Fernández Lechuga. Visitors can wander through the ornate nave, admire the choir stalls, and explore the cloisters that once served as a spiritual retreat. The monastery is also the ceremonial seat of the Church’s Seminary, adding a living dimension to its storied past. The church’s façade, completed in 1652, features a plateresque style with towering pilasters and a statuary group of St. Martin giving his cloak to a poor man. Inside, St. Benedict’s and other saints are depicted in vibrant altarpieces, while the high altar, finished by F. de Casas y Novoa, remains a masterpiece of Iberian baroque art. The Latin‑cross plan and twin lobbies give the interior a sense of grandeur, making it a must‑visit for art and history lovers. Beyond its architectural splendors, San Martiño Pinario serves as a living cultural hub hosting exhibitions, pilgrimages, and religious events annually, and is a vital stop for those following the Camino de Santiago’s spiritual heritage.

Highlights

• Baroque Architecture
• Museum of Religious Art
• Cloisters

Must-See Areas

Good to Know

At a glance

• Typical visit: about 2 hours