The Monastery
Real Mosteiro de Oia
A monastery that proudly boasts the closest location to the sea in all of Spain and has a written history of welcoming pilgrims since the 1500’s -1700’s.
The Pilgrims Soul
The monastery was first established in 1137 with building commencing in 1163. It later becomes a Cistercian Monastery.
The construction originally began with Romanesque (complete with Templar’s cross) architectural roots, then Gothic and finally Baroque in the 17-18th century.
Using cannons to protect the coast against Turkish and Berber Pirates, the Cistern Monks thwarted their landing at Oia in 1624. This act of heroism earned them the moniker the “Fighting Monks”.
In recognition of their feat, King Philip IV grants them the title of Royal and Imperial Monastery of Oia.
Tours of the monastery can be booked through the tourist information centre. Please click here for more information.
