The Hermitage of Nosa Señora do Faro is one of the most emblematic shrines in inland Galicia. It is located at the summit of Monte do Faro, on the boundary between the municipalities of Chantada (Lugo) and Rodeiro (Pontevedra), at more than 1,150 metres above sea level, on a promontory that commands wide views of the four Galician provinces. Its elevated position not only offers an exceptional viewpoint over the Galician landscape, but also connects the site with ancient places of worship and with the tradition of elevated observation points used since remote times.
The present building was rebuilt in the 17th century over the remains of an earlier temple, possibly of Romanesque origin, and later renovated, with the façade rebuilt in 1726. It is constructed with walls of granite and slate rubble and ashlar masonry, with a Latin cross floor plan and a gabled roof, designed to withstand the harsh climatic conditions of the mountain. Inside, the main altarpiece in Neoclassical style, created by Tomás Figueroa Rodríguez, stands out.
The hermitage maintains a strong tradition of devotion and pilgrimage. Every 8 September, the traditional pilgrimage festival in honour of Nosa Señora do Faro takes place, during which thousands of faithful climb from the parish church of Santiago de Requeixo to the sanctuary along the Camino de la Virgen. Visiting the Hermitage of Nosa Señora do Faro allows visitors to discover one of the highest and most symbolic sites in Galicia, where landscape, spirituality and tradition come together in a single setting.
