Located between Lugo and Santiago de Compostela, Palas de Rei is a historically rich town on the French Way of the Camino de Santiago. It was previously settled by the Romans, the Swabians and the Visigoths, with its name originating from its role as a royal residence for the Visigothic King of Hispania, Witiza.
Things to do in Palas de Rey
Don’t miss the Iglesia de San Tirso, a charming stone church that incorporates a 12th-century Romanesque door. Step inside to explore the modern interior with its rustic wooden ceiling. Adjacent to the church is a Baroque-style mansion and a statue dedicated to the Virgen del Socorro.
A short drive from the centre of Palas de Rei takes you to the Iglesia d Vilar de Donas, which is an impressive example of Galician Romanesque architecture. It was originally established as a female nunnery by the Arias de Monterroso family and was donated to the Order of Santiago in 1184. Declared a National Monument, it houses Gothic paintings and Knights of Santiago de Compostela tombs.
If you drive in the opposite direction from Palas de Rei, you’ll arrive at the Castle of Pambre, a commanding fortress that served as a lookout along the French Way. It is considered one of Galicia’s best examples of medieval military architecture and managed to survive the 15th-century Irmandiño Revolts. In addition to its square keep flanked by four towers, the castle features a raised granary and a 12th-century chapel.
Getting around Palas de Rey
Palas de Rei is around 30 minutes’ drive from Lugo and an hour from Santiago de Compostela. Santiago-Rosalía de Castro Airport is 45 minutes away and has flights to destinations across Europe. Regular buses connect to Palas de Rei and the town is compact enough to explore on foot.