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Paradela

Only 100 kilometers separate Paradela from the Cathedral of Santiago. This is the minimum distance required to obtain the *Compostela*, making Paradela a key point on the French Route. Additionally, it boasts the highest concentration of Romanesque religious buildings in all of Europe.

The history and landscape of Paradela evoke the idea of a mandatory “stopover,” a place to change horses and, of course, a key point on the Camino de Santiago, which has guided pilgrims for over 10 centuries. Paradela’s sites appear in old codices and stories that describe the passage of pilgrims. 

Paradela enjoys a stable and pleasant climate for visitors. Surrounded by forests, it exemplifies the well-known landscapes of inland Galicia. Visitors will quickly discover that this is a central hub, well connected to the main Galician cities and unique locations such as the Ribeira Sacra. 

From the Cortes viewpoint, one can enjoy one of the best views along the entire French Route to Compostela, including the winding curves of the Miño River. This Jacobean route stretches for 7,300 meters within the municipality, and it is common for many pilgrims to start their journey here, whether on foot or horseback. The final section of the route descends into the Miño River basin, which serves as the natural boundary between Paradela and Portomarín. 

Paradela offers visitors a variety of attractions, including leisure activities, cuisine, history, and nature, all of which make it unique. There’s no better way to experience it than by exploring every corner. Discover them all!

42.761502, -7.565224

Información práctica

What to see

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    Monumento

    San Miguel´s stone cross

    The San Miguel Cross stands beside the Romanesque church of the same name, dating from the 11th or early 12th century.
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    Monumento

    Santa María of Castro de Rei

    Only a few parts of the ancient church remain, such as the apse on the right side, part of the walls, and other fragments. Inside, there are traces of frescoes dating from the 15th and early 16th centuries, as well as a fascinating pre-Romanesque capital.
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    Monumento

    San Facundo of Ribas de Miño

    The San Facundo de Ribas de Miño complex, declared a national monument in 1982, consists of the parish church and the rectory house.
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