Galicia is full of magical corners, but there is a mandatory stop on the border with Portugal that will captivate you from the first second:Tuy (in Galician Tui). This historic episcopal city, located on the banks of the Minho River, is a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, medieval passageways and impressive architectural heritage.
On our last getaway through the Rías Baixas of Galicia, we decided to spend a day visiting Tuy, in the south of Pontevedra. Tuy was, without a doubt, one of the great surprises of the trip. Next, we tell you everything you can’t miss in this medieval town.
The Cathedral-Fortress of Santa María de Tui
The most impressive monument to see in Tui is its famousSaint Mary’s Cathedral. Of Romanesque and Gothic style (12th-13th centuries), it attracts attention because it looks more like a military castle than a religious temple. Its battlements and defensive towers remind us of its ancient function of surveillance against Portuguese incursions.
We recommend you get lost around the temple. The streets that surround it preserve a historic stone pavement and an atmosphere that will transport you directly to the Middle Ages. Access to the cathedral will allow you to visit its beautiful Gothic cloister, the only one preserved in a cathedral in Galicia.
Visiting the Historic Center and the Jewish Quarter
Tuy has one of the most important historical sites in Galicia. As you walk through its cobbled streets, you will come across its multicultural past, especially linked to the Jewish community. Tuiyconserves the collection ofsambenitosmost important in Europe in its diocesan museum and numerous vestiges of the Jewish quarter, such as the House of Solomon.
One of the most photogenic and mysterious corners of this area is the famoustunnel of the trapped nuns, a vaulted passage under the Poor Clares convent that connects the upper part of the city with the walls.
Chapel of San Telmo and Church of San Domingos
Continuing with the monumental route, you must make a stop at theSt. Elmo’s Chapel. This temple is a unique example of Portuguese baroque in Galicia, built on the house where this Dominican saint died in the 13th century. Its circular floor plan and exterior dome are unmistakable.
Another point of great artistic interest is theConvent of San Domingos. Its church has spectacular Gothic elements and baroque altarpieces that are worth a leisurely visit. In addition, the surrounding gardens offer a perfect space to rest.
The Town Hall and the River Walk
The Town Hall Square (Praza do Concello) is the administrative heart and a fantastic place to have a coffee and contemplate local life. Here you will find the statue dedicated to the defenders of the city and very well preserved typical Galician architecture.
To end your visit to Tuy in the best way, we suggest you descend to the banks of the Miño River. The streets that go down towards the river will give you beautiful views of the neighboring Portuguese town of Valença do Minho, connected to Tui by the famous International Bridge designed by the Eiffel school.
Practical tips for your visit to Tui
- How to get there?Tui is excellently connected by the A-55 highway. It is located just 30 minutes from Vigo and 1 hour from Ourense.
- Recommended route:We combine the morning in Ourense, the noon in Tui, and in the afternoon we visit the impressive Castro de Santa Trega in A Guarda before going to sleep in Vigo. A great and very economical day!
- Where to eat?If you want to live a 100% Galician gastronomic experience, look for a “furancho” in the surroundings of the province. We recommend theFurancho A de Caballeroto enjoy good local wine and homemade tapas at unbeatable prices.