Oak Grove and Convent of San Lourenzo
The Convent of San Lorenzo de Trasouto was founded at the beginning of the 12th century in a shady oak grove on the banks of the River Sarela. Initially occupied by Franciscans, it became the Count and Countess of Altamira’s residence from the 15th century onwards. Despite being remodelled on numerous occasions, the church still has its original Romanesque naves.
Outside this building, whose walls hide an important historical garden and which is now a distinguished restaurant for special occasions, there is still a luxuriant grove of hundred-year-old oak trees. Since the oak is Galicia’s most typical tree -often linked to myths and legends- `carballeiras´ (the Galician name for oak groves) have always been areas used for meetings, processions, fiestas and celebrations; quasi-sacred, shady, magical... places. Hidden among the trees there is a fountain and two `cruceiros´, large stone crosses that marked the roads and are one of Galicia´s identifying features.
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Oak Grove and Convent of San Lourenzo
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