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Historic center · Sarria, Galicia
Rúa Maior de Sarria
The Camino de Santiago street in the upper part of Sarria, with the church of Santa Mariña, the Romanesque–Gothic church do Salvador and the tower that remains of the medieval fortress.
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 Rúa Maior de Sarria
The Rúa Maior is the main street of the upper part of Sarria and the stretch of the Camino Francés that crosses the town. From the center, next to the river, a stairway leads up to it, and from there the route climbs between stone houses, hostels, gear shops and cafés full of pilgrims, especially early in the morning.
At the start of the ascent is the church of Santa Mariña, one of the town's three parishes. Higher up, the church do Salvador is Romanesque with Gothic elements, from the 13th century, built of dark stone, with a simple arched portal.
At the top, near the Salvador, are the remains of the fortress of the lords of Lemos and of Sarria, built in the Middle Ages at a point that dominated the village. Only one tower remains, known as the torre do Batalhão, which is privately owned and can be seen from the outside. From there you can see the valley of the river Sarria.
The street ends at the mosteiro da Madalena, and the Camino continues toward the medieval bridge of Áspera and Barbadelo, heading to Portomarín.
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 1 to 1h30 on foot, including the churches.
Best time
Early in the morning to see pilgrims setting off, or late in the afternoon when they arrive. The churches have limited opening hours.
How to get there
The stairway up to the Rúa Maior is in the center, about a 10-minute walk from the train station.
Tip
If you are starting the Camino in Sarria, do the Rúa Maior route the day before, at a relaxed pace: on the morning of departure it fills with hurried pilgrims.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Rúa Maior de Sarria
What to see on the Rúa Maior in Sarria?
The church of Santa Mariña, the Romanesque-Gothic church of Salvador, the tower of the old fortress and, at the end, the mosteiro da Madalena.
Can you enter the tower of the fortress in Sarria?
No. The tower is privately owned and can only be seen from the outside, next to the church of Salvador.
Is the Rúa Maior part of the Camino de Santiago?
Yes. It is the section of the Camino Francés that crosses the upper part of Sarria.