Belonging to the province of Pontevedra, O Porriño (such as its name in the Galician language) is one of the municipalities that make up the metropolitan area of Vigo. This is a small but very charming villa that you will discover during your stay in the Portuguese Way, full of history and the most beautiful landscapes.
O Porriño is crossed by the Louro River, right in the Louriña Valley. It is developed right on what was an ancient crossroads, between some of the most important towns of Roman times. In case you decide on any of the companies to do the Camino de Santiago de Compostela, you can choose the Portuguese Way and you will pass through this picturesque city.
O Porriño is also known for being the home to thousands of Gandarás de Budiño. This type of migratory birds found their home in this swampy area. In fact, it is considered as one of the richest ecosystems from across the continent.
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The origin of his name
Historians say that the name of O Porriño comes from the ancient king Ghrovary The Childish. This is a young monarch who, at just 17 years old, was in charge of leading a kind of uprising and popular revolt to overthrow an ancient tyrant king. This occurred long before the arrival of the Romans to the area.
Since then, the citizens who lived here were known as children of puerilis, but over time it became the current O Porriño.
What to see in Porrino
If you have ever done the French Way, for example in the section of the organized route from Sarria to Santiago de Compostela, there are several towns that you find before reaching your destination. Likewise, dDuring your journey along the Portuguese path, O Porriño will welcome you, with its friendly people, beautiful landscapes and delicious cuisine. Among the places you can enjoy here are:
Santa María de Concepción Chapel
This is the main church of the city, although over time its name has changed several times. It is built on the remains of an old hermitage, around the XVI century, for this moment was known as Our Lady of La O and later, as San Jorge. In 1809, it received its current name.
Stands out for its bell tower in the center of the construction. For its part, the main door is flanked by two columns that simultaneously serve as the base for the neo-baroque style pediment. Inside, it has a central nave and two on the sides. A beautiful detail that you should undoubtedly appreciate are the murals, in addition to the image of the Virgin of La Concepción.
San Sebastian Chapel
La San Sebastian Chapel It is considered one of the main architectural jewels of the entire municipality. Was built in the XNUMXth century in honor of this martyr, under a quite elegant and above all sober style, combining a bit of neoclassical details.
Inside, it is possible to enjoy the carved figure of Saint Sebastian, And a Baroque altarpiece dating from the 18th century. During the saint’s festivities during the month of January, this chapel is the center of all the events, which includes a procession and a pilgrimage.
Casa Do Concello
This historic building is located in the heart of the town, right on the Town Hall Square. It was built at beginning of the 20th century, under a completely modernist, being declared as an Asset of Cultural Interest.
On its façade you can see different decorative details made from wrought iron, in addition to the stained glass windows that represent the city’s shields. Inside, you can find different public rooms, as well as other rooms for cultural uses.
Saint Benedict Chapel
As the story goes, late nineteenth century, The Rodríguez family, famous for being some of the most influential philanthropists in the city, commissioned the construction of a religious chapel. The ends were nothing more than worship God.
It is a beautiful chapel, developed under a Baroque, which on its façade is adorned by two beautiful Solomonic columns, in addition to the bell tower at the top.
Inside, it has a single nave with a transept and chapels on the sides. It has a carving of Saint Benedict, in addition to the main altarpiece. Eucharists are held here every Sunday and some special celebrations such as baptisms, weddings and funerals.
Or Castle of Cans
Also known as the Miravel castle, is developed in the highest part of a granite hill which is around 358 meters high.
From here you can enjoy one of the best views of the city and all its natural environment. Due to its location, it had great relevance in past times, since it was used to control access to the historic town, in addition to allowing monitoring of everything that was happening in its surroundings and being alert to possible enemy threats.
This place is undoubtedly considered one of the most important tourist spots in the entire town. Thanks to its beautiful natural environment, it allows all visitors to disconnect a little and enjoy the sounds of nature.
So, grab a map of the Portuguese Way and find O Porriño to have it scheduled as a mandatory stop towards Santiago.
