Church of Santa María a Nova de Noia

The Church of Santa María a Nova de Noia features a single central hall with a wooden roof supported by pointed stone arches that divide the interior into four distinct sections. The layout follows typical medieval church design with clear structural divisions.

Archbishop Berenguel de Landoira commissioned the church's construction in 1327 to replace an earlier 12th-century religious structure that stood in the town center. This new building represented a significant religious reorganization in Noia.

The church holds a significant collection of carved tombstones spanning several centuries of burial traditions. These stone markers reveal how people honored their deceased across different generations.

The building operates as a museum with daytime access for visitors to explore historical artifacts and architectural elements. The interior remains well preserved and offers clear views of medieval craftsmanship and design throughout.

The main entrance features a tympanum with traces of original color that depicts the Adoration of the Kings. The carving unusually includes the figures of Bishop Landoira and Saint Joseph, making it a rare example of personal commemoration in medieval church art.

Location: Noia

GPS coordinates: 42.78349,-8.88595

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:00