Touring the Parador

Anyone can visit the Monasterio de Santo Estevo, even if you are not staying at the parador. Santo Estevo was founded in the 6th century but the monastery and basilica were not built until the 12th century. They were completed in the 18th century.

The church facade is Romanesque and has an oculus which lights up the interior.

Antique confession stand.

Statue of St. James

The altarpiece by Juan Anges, built in the 16th century.

On one side of the transept, there is a stone altarpiece made of granite, It represents Christ in Majesty with the twelve Apostles.

To the side of the church is the entrance to the monastery and the Parador. It was built in 1736 in the Baroque style. There are 3 coats of arms: the central one is that of Charles V, the one on the left has 9 mitres representing the original 9 bishops who founded the monastery and on the right, the Congregation of Castile.

There is a whirlpool on site but it was closed due to COVID.

The Old Kitchen

The monastery has been updated with modern lounges.

Outdoor sitting area was inviting.

The monastery has 3 cloisters. The main one is the Claustro de Caballeros (Knight's Cloister).

The Claustro do Viveiro

The last cloister is the Claustro dos Bispos (Bishop's Cloister). This is the oldest cloister and is so named because the original nine bishops were buried here.

2021 09 09