The
Church of San Bieito do Campo
is the oldest temple in the Galician capital and is located in the Praza de Cervantes, one of the best known sites in the historic center of Santiago de Compostela.
The building has medieval origins associated with the episcopate of San Pedro de Mezonzo, but was completely rebuilt in the twelfth century in Romanesque style, by Archbishop Diego Xelmirez, and later rebuilt in the eighteenth century, following a neoclassical style, in a work promoted by Archbishop Malvar.
For this reason, it is one of the temples that suffered the disparity of architectural styles present in the ecclesiastical heritage of the city throughout history.
The actions proposed at the end of the 18th century involved a complete renovation of the building. This new work was characterized by a marked neoclassical style and was in charge of the architect Melchor de Prado y Mariño, master builder of the Cathedral of Santiago and considered the highest representative of this artistic canon.
In fact, the actions led to the demolition of the previous building in its entirety, so that no Romanesque elements have been preserved.
The building has a rectangular floor plan with a single nave, built in granite masonry and a gabled tile roof.
The nave is evenly distributed in four sections, with a vault and a main chapel that represents the presbytery of the apse. Behind the presbytery is the rectangular sacristy.
The facade, characterized by its simplicity and austerity, has a section that reflects the interior structure and a window with a lintel. Above this, a small simple roof was installed.
Among the most interesting details that can be enjoyed during the visit are the baroque carvings of St. Anthony, St. Joseph and St. John the Baptist.
In addition, the church has an exhibition, composed mainly of sacred art, which is part of a museum itinerary made up of the exhibitions of the Capela Xeral das Ánimas and the church of Santa María do Camiño.
Visiting hours are from Monday to Saturday, from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm. In addition, it is a temple of regular worship by the faithful.
