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Church · Lugo, Galicia
Catedral de Santa María de Lugo
Romanesque cathedral begun in 1129, with Gothic and Baroque additions and a Neoclassical façade, where the Blessed Sacrament is exposed day and night; part of the World Heritage of the Caminho de Santiago.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Catedral de Santa María de Lugo
The catedral de Santa María de Lugo stands in the center, next to the wall. The first church was restored by Bishop Odoário in the 8th century, and a document from King Afonso II in 832 states that it served as a model for the cathedral of Oviedo. The present cathedral began to be built in 1129 in the Romanesque style and was extended over the following centuries.
As a result the building combines different styles: the plan and much of the naves are Romanesque, the apse is Gothic, the chapel of the Virgem dos Olhos Grandes behind the altar is Baroque, and the main façade, with two towers, is Neoclassical from the 18th century. The north door preserves a Romanesque tympanum with Christ in majesty.
Lugo has the privilege of keeping the Blessed Sacrament exposed day and night in the cathedral, a tradition of centuries. For this reason the chalice and the host appear on the coat of arms of the city and of Galicia.
In 2015 the cathedral was included in the World Heritage list as part of the Caminho de Santiago, along the Caminho Primitivo.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
30 to 45 minutes.
Best time
In the morning, outside Mass times; check before you go.
How to get there
It is located on the praça de Santa María, in the centre, next to the wall, about a 10-minute walk from the train station.
Tip
Go to the chapel of the Virgem dos Olhos Grandes, behind the high altar: it is the richest Baroque part of the cathedral.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Catedral de Santa María de Lugo
What style is Lugo cathedral?
Mainly Romanesque, with a Gothic ambulatory (girola), a Baroque chapel and a Neoclassical façade.
Why does the chalice appear on the coat of arms of Galicia?
Because of the tradition of the Blessed Sacrament being exposed day and night in Lugo cathedral.
Is Lugo cathedral a World Heritage Site?
Yes, since 2015, as part of the Camino de Santiago.