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Church · Ourense, Galicia
Catedral de Ourense
The cathedral of San Martiño, from the 12th and 13th centuries, is one of the great Romanesque churches of Galicia, with the polychrome Pórtico do Paraíso and the chapel of the Santo Cristo.
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 Ourense
The Catedral de Ourense, dedicated to San Martiño, was built between the second half of the 12th century and the first half of the 13th; the high altar was consecrated in 1188. It is considered one of the great Romanesque churches of Spain, with Cistercian influences in the architecture and the sculptural influence of Mestre Mateus, the author of the Pórtico da Glória of Santiago.
The building was also constructed as a fortress, with towers and battlements, some of which still remain. Later renovations added Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque elements without erasing the Romanesque form of the whole.
Inside, the best-known feature is the Pórtico do Paraíso at the west entrance, with figures of apostles, prophets and elders still showing painted colors, inspired by the Pórtico da Glória. The chapel of the Santo Cristo, added in the 16th century, houses an image of Christ that, according to tradition, came from Finisterra.
The cathedral is in the old town, surrounded by narrow streets, a few minutes from As Burgas and the Praza Maior.
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
From 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Best time
In the morning, before going down to As Burgas and the Praza Maior. Visiting and worship times vary by season: check in advance.
How to get there
It is in Ourense's old town, about 2 km from the train station. From the Praza Maior it is a 2-minute walk.
Tip
Allow time for the Pórtico do Paraíso, with the original colors on the figures. Pilgrims can get the stamp for their credencial at the cathedral.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Catedral de Ourense
What is the Pórtico do Paraíso?
It is the cathedral’s west entrance, with figures of apostles, prophets and elders that still retain painted colors. It was inspired by the Pórtico de la Gloria of Santiago.
Is Ourense cathedral Romanesque?
Yes, for the most part; it was built between the 12th and 13th centuries, with Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque additions.
What is the Chapel of the Santo Cristo?
A 16th‑century chapel housing an image of Christ that, according to tradition, came from Finisterra. It is the focus of much devotion in the city.