San Pedro de Rocas Monastery

Excavated in the natural rock of the mountains near the town of Esgos in Ourense is the abandoned monastery of San Pedro de Rocas. This ancient cult building is considered one of the oldest in Galicia and the only one that still retains part of its original structure.

The abandonment of the monastery of San Pedro de Rocas occurred in the second decade of the 8th century.

The Monastery of San Pedro de Rocas is one of the oldest and most unique monasteries in Galicia, located in the municipality of Esgos, in the province of Ourense. This monastery stands out for being partially excavated in the rock, which gives it a unique and mysterious character.
The foundation of the monastery dates back to the 6th century, although most of the structures visible today date from the 9th and 10th centuries. The monastery church is composed of three naves excavated in the rock, with a series of anthropomorphic tombs also carved in the stone. Outside, you can see a bell tower that was added in the 15th century.
San Pedro de Rocas is known not only for its architecture, but also for its natural environment, surrounded by forests and mountains, making it a place of great beauty and tranquility. The monastery has been declared a Historic-Artistic Monument and is an important tourist and pilgrimage destination.