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Church · Pontevedra, Galicia
Igreja da Virgem Peregrina
18th-century Igreja with a scallop-shell floor plan, the symbol of pilgrims, dedicated to the Virgem Peregrina, patron of the province of Pontevedra.
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 Igreja da Virgem Peregrina
The Igreja da Virgem Peregrina is a symbol of Pontevedra. It stands in Praça da Peregrina, at the entrance to the historic center, exactly on the route for those arriving via the Caminho Português. Construction began on June 18, 1778, to a design by Antonio Souto, paid for by the confraternity of the Virgem Peregrina, and the first mass was held in 1794.
The floor plan is shaped like a scallop shell, the symbol of Santiago pilgrims. The façade, curved and narrow, combines late Baroque with Neoclassical elements and is flanked by two towers. Inside the space is circular, with the altar displaying the image of the Virgem dressed as a pilgrim, with hat, staff and gourd.
Devotion to the Virgem Peregrina arose in Pontevedra in the mid-18th century among pilgrims passing through the city. She is the patron saint of the province of Pontevedra, and her feast takes place in August.
The church is a Bien de Interés Cultural and remains open for worship. Pilgrims usually stamp their credential there.
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
15 to 20 minutes.
Best time
Outside of celebrations; early morning is usually quiet.
How to get there
It's on praça da Peregrina, at the entrance to the historic center, about a 15-minute walk from the train station.
Tip
Look at the church from above, if you have the chance: the shell-shaped plan is clearer when seen from above or on a map.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Igreja da Virgem Peregrina
Why does the church have the shape of a shell?
The plan is shaped like a scallop shell, the symbol of the pilgrims of Santiago, because of the devotion to the Virgem Peregrina.
When was the church built?
Construction began in 1778, to a design by Antonio Souto, and the first mass was held in 1794.
Do pilgrims get their credential stamped at the Peregrina?
Yes, the church is on the Caminho Português, and pilgrims usually stamp their credential there.