Monastery of Santa María de Villanueva de Oscos

Following Mendizábal’s Confiscation, the monastery’s assets passed into civilian hands. The church remained a parish church, whilst the monastic buildings were sold and partly converted into dwellings. Some parts of the complex, including sections of the cloister and the monastic building, remain in a state of ruin.

The church is the main example of medieval architecture. It has three naves, the central one being the highest, and a chancel comprising three apses. The naves are divided into five bays by pointed arches resting on cruciform pillars. The interior is characterised by the sobriety and austerity typical of monastic architecture.

Among its most notable features is the arcosolium housing the tomb of Juan Álvarez Osorio, one of the monastery’s principal benefactors, decorated with funerary motifs. Also noteworthy is the coffered ceiling forming the base of the choir, built during the 17th century.

The monastic building that can be seen today is primarily a Baroque structure, rebuilt during the 17th and 18th centuries. It is attached to the south side of the church and is characterised by its grand proportions and the simplicity of its slate walls. Its main façade features a doorway framed by pilasters, an upper balcony and the coats of arms of Spain and the Cistercian Order. Inside, a courtyard remains, although a significant part of the building is in a state of disrepair.

Guided tours of the complex are available at certain times of the year and can be booked through Villanueva de Oscos Town Hall on 985 626 219. In addition, there is a self-guided tour in Spanish and English, lasting around 45 minutes, which begins next to the main entrance to the church.

Along the route, visitors will find information panels and audio guides accessible via QR codes. The experience also includes two virtual reality stations that allow visitors to discover what the monastery was like during its heyday, with recreations of the monks’ daily life and of spaces such as the refectory and the chapter house.

The tour is rounded off with an audiovisual presentation in the former wine cellar and interpretative panels located outside. The space has been refurbished to make the visit easier and to improve the integration of the new facilities, particularly in areas with less natural light.