Although
this church is officially dated from the XII century, some says
that its origins are from before even then.
It was previously known by the title of St Ginés and its
first incarnation was as a cowshed inside the Castle of Sarmiento.
In the XIV century it was enlarged to become a fortification when
Pedro Ruíz Sarmiento was to take up residency.
During the majority of the medieval period the church was a dependent
of the Monastery of Celanova and was an important factor is the
Christianisation of the local Jews during and after the reign of
Ferdinand and Isabella.
It was in 1486 that its name was changed to the Church of St Mary
Magdalene.
Although a church, it is now reserved for recreational activities
and you are able to come and view the church, with its nave of Baroque
design and other highlights such as its vault and an artistically
designed alter.
The church was partially renovated in the XVIII century when the
exterior was restored
and
the facade washed. Later, electricity was installed in the interior.
Of the recreational activities that now take place, there are activities
of the Festival of History and photography and art exhibitions.
It is also used regularly by the town’s children for their
recreational clubs and activities.
Tourist
association www.ribadavia.net - Updated june/29/2009 - Optimized for 800
x 600
