SANTA MARIA DAS AREAS

The parish church of Santa María das Areas in Finisterre (12th century) stands on the Monte do Cabo. The church is the village’s most important temple, where you can find images of the Santo Cristo (Holy Christ) of Finisterre, also known as “Cristo de la Barba Dorada” (Christ of the Golden Beard), and carvings of the patroness, of San Roque (St. Roch) and of St. James, who came to these lands to continue his apostolic work. The main services during the Holy Week are held in this church or in the field next to it.

Although the cult of St. James is not generalized, many pilgrims make a stop here before finishing their journey at Cape Finisterre. During the years of St. James, the Holy Door is open.

Right where the cemetery is located, in front of the main facade, there used to be a pilgrims’ hospital back in the 15th century.

Please select one of the following topics to learn more about the history of this temple.