The chapel sits directly above a Roman-era necropolis and a prehistoric castro site.
The 'Ritual of the Nine Waves' is a pre-Christian fertility tradition that was later Christianized and incorporated into the chapel's pilgrimage.
Excavations at the site have uncovered evidence of a Roman-era fish salting factory, highlighting the area's historical importance for trade.
The chapel's orientation is specifically aligned toward the Atlantic Ocean, emphasizing its maritime connection.
Archaeologists have identified layers of occupation dating back to the Iron Age at this specific peninsula location.
Ermida de Nosa Señora da Lanzada is a 12th-century Romanesque chapel situated on a narrow peninsula separating the Arousa and Pontevedra estuaries. The structure occupies the site of an ancient Celtic castro and Roman fortification, evidenced by ongoing archaeological excavations nearby. It is famous for the traditional 'Ritual of the Nine Waves', a fertility rite practiced on the adjacent beach during the last weekend of August. The stone chapel features a simple rectangular nave and a distinct semicircular apse typical of Galician rural Romanesque architecture. Archaeological remains of a salting factory and a Roman necropolis have been documented in the immediate vicinity. The site remains a significant pilgrimage destination during the Romería da Lanzada festival.
From the western dunes looking east toward the chapel with the sunset behind it.
Walk the wooden boardwalk path around the peninsula to view the archaeological excavation sites.
Bring a windbreaker, as the peninsula is highly exposed to Atlantic gusts regardless of the season.
Check the tide charts before visiting to ensure you can walk the full length of the adjacent beach at low tide.
Do not attempt to climb or touch the ongoing archaeological excavation pits marked with fencing.
The chapel grounds are open year-round, but access to the interior may be limited outside of feast days.
Maintain a respectful silence as it is an active site of religious pilgrimage.
