The
Chapel of Nosa Señora da Pastoriza
is a beautiful example of 18th century religious architecture. It was erected in 1761 and 1762 over an old hermitage, coinciding with the peak of baroque art in Spain, and was remodeled later, in the second quarter of the 19th century, to show off in all its splendor.
It is a small chapel with a single nave with a Latin cross plan and very short transept arms, accessed by semicircular arches. Its apse is semicircular and is also entered through semicircular arches, which generates a spectacular view for those who access it for the first time.
The highlight of this chapel is its façade, built in a classicist historicist style and designed by Juan López Freire. Known as ‘el Mayor’, he was a master builder who left his mark on the architecture of Santiago de Compostela, where he developed a large part of his career, especially in the context of the city’s building renovation.
He participated in the construction of the Pazo de Raxoi and the University building, worked on the rebuilding of the nave of Santa María del Camino, the chapel of Dolores in the Church of San Miguel dos Agros and the Chapel of Santa Teresa.
In addition, other constructions are attributed to him, such as the designs of the Church of Santa María de Ons in Brión or the Church of Santa María de Marrozos, in Santiago de Compostela.
Returning to the facade of the Chapel of Nosa Señora da Pastoriza, this one rises on a podium of stairs and has a linteled doorway flanked by pilasters attached. Above is a rectangular opening, followed by a frieze with triglyphs and metopes.
On the belfry of the chapel, there is a large triangular classical pediment with pinnacles at the ends. The ensemble gives the temple an impressive appearance that attracts all who pass through the area.
The interior of the building is as beautiful as its exterior. It has details of decoration also in historicist classicist style. The natural lighting that enters through the side windows allows a clear view of the religious images. In addition, the feeling of tranquility inside invites reflection and prayer.
It is a perfect place to make a short stop on the Camino de Santiago, giving pilgrims a moment of peace and rest before reaching their final destination: the Cathedral of Santiago.
The Nosa Señora da Pastoriza Chapel celebrates mass every evening of the week, from Monday to Saturday, at 18:30 and on Sundays and holidays in the mornings, at 11:30.
