Classified as a National Monument in 1950, the Monastery of Santa Maria das Júnias is located in the Peneda-Gerês National Park, about 2 kilometres from the village of Pitões das Júnias, in the municipality of Montalegre.
The monastery's church still stands, and is the site of an annual pilgrimage.
The monastery, with a church comprising a Romanesque nave and Gothic chancel, was built during the first half of the 12th century over a pre-Romanesque hermitage from the 9th century, and was later subjected to alterations during the Renaissance and Baroque periods. It was initially occupied by monks of the Order of St Benedict, and began to follow the rule of the Cistercian Order in the mid-13th century.
It was abandoned in the 19th century and subjected to looting and gradual deterioration. Today, it lies in ruins, but it is still a popular place for tourists interested in medieval history and architecture. Its remote location, situated in a stony valley next to the Campesinho stream and surrounded by lush natural scenery, also attracts many nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts.
The monastery's church still stands, and is the site of an annual pilgrimage on 15 August.
Location
The 350-metre walking route to the monastery is on a stone pavement in poor condition, with a steep slope and quite slippery when wet, so suitable footwear and a walking stick are recommended.
