The monastery was founded by a group of seven hermits who sought seclusion in the canyons of the Sil River.
The floor of the chapel contains numerous anthropomorphic graves carved directly into the bedrock.
A 15th-century bell tower stands on top of a giant rock, seemingly detached from the main structure.
The site was abandoned by its last resident monk in 1923 following a devastating fire.
San Pedro de Rocas is considered the 'cradle' of the Ribeira Sacra monastic tradition.
Mosteiro de San Pedro de Rocas is a 6th-century rock-hewn monastery carved directly into the sandstone cliffs of the Ribeira Sacra region in Ourense. It is recognized as the oldest monastery in Galicia, founded in 573 AD by a group of anchorite monks. The structure features three small, side-by-side naves excavated into the natural rock, which function as the sanctuary. The site includes a distinctive 15th-century bell gable rising above the rock mass and a necropolis containing anthropomorphic tombs carved into the stone floor. It served as a religious retreat for centuries before being abandoned due to a fire in the 1920s. Today, the complex houses an interpretation center dedicated to the history of the Ribeira Sacra and the monastic lifestyle of the region. The interior maintains a constant, cool microclimate due to its subterranean nature. Surrounding the monastery are ruins of the original monastic outbuildings and a cemetery.
The view from the approach path looking up at the iconic bell gable perched on the rock.
Wear footwear with good grip as the rock-carved floors can be slippery.
Bring a light jacket even in summer, as the interior of the rock church is significantly cooler than the outside.
Allow time to walk the short trail around the exterior to view the necropolis and cliffside carvings.
Attempting to climb the fenced-off or restricted ruins around the main rock structure.
Closed on Mondays; occasionally limited access during winter months.
Maintain a quiet tone, as the site is considered a historic sacred space.
