Church of Santa María das Areas facts for kids

The Church of Saint Mary of the Sands in Fisterra, Spain.

The Igrexa de Santa María das Areas, which means the Church of Saint Mary of the Sands, is a historic church in the town of Fisterra, Spain. It is located in the region of Galicia.

This beautiful stone church was built around the 12th century. Because of its long history and importance, the Spanish government named it a Bien de Interés Cultural in 1985. This is a special title given to protect important landmarks.

History of the Church

An Ancient Beginning

The church was likely built on a very old settlement. Its story officially begins in the year 1199. A noblewoman named Urraca Fernández, who was the daughter of a powerful count, donated land and food to help build the church.

Her donation was recorded in a historical document. She gave "Five bushels of bread and a third of my cows from Montealto" for the "work of the church of St. Mary at the ends of the earth." At that time, people thought Fisterra was the edge of the world!

Growing Through the Ages

The church was built in two main stages, using different architectural styles.

• Romanesque Style (12th Century): The first part to be built was the main central hall, called the nave. This was done in the Romanesque style, which is known for thick, strong walls and rounded arches.

• Gothic Style (14th-15th Centuries): Later, new parts were added in the Gothic style. This style is famous for its pointed arches and detailed designs. The new additions included a special chapel for Our Lady of Mount Carmel, the main altar area, and the baptistery, where baptisms take place. These newer sections feature beautiful ribbed vaults on the ceiling.

What the Church Looks Like

The main altarpiece inside the church, showing Jesus Christ.

The church is made from strong, local granite stone. The main hall, or nave, has a simple wooden roof covered with red tiles. You can see large stone supports called buttresses on the outside walls, which help hold the building up.

Before you enter the main church, you pass through an entrance area called a narthex. This part has Gothic features and a staircase that leads up to the square bell tower. The tower has a pyramid-shaped roof.

The church was an important stop for pilgrims traveling on the famous Camino de Santiago (Way of St. James).

See also

In Spanish: Iglesia de Nosa Señora das Areas para niños