History of Baiona
Alfonso IX granted it a town charter in 1201. In 1474 Pedro Madruga built a tower on Monte Boi, where Monterreal now stands. On 1 March 1493 the Pinta arrived, commanded by Martín Alonso Pinzón: it was the first European port to hear of the discovery.
What to see in Baiona
Monterreal fortress
Walled enclosure of medieval origin, remodelled in the 16th century by the Count of Gondomar; it has been a Parador since 1966.
Virgen de la Roca
A 15 m statue on Monte Sansón, designed by Antonio Palacios and unveiled in 1930.
Former collegiate church of Santa María
A church from the second half of the 13th century, between Romanesque and Gothic.
Replica of the caravel Pinta
In the port, recalling the arrival of 1493.
Population and location
Baiona has 12,366 inhabitants (INE, 2025) and covers 34.47 km², at the mouth of the Vigo estuary, opposite the Cíes Islands.
Festivals
The Festa da Arribada, on the first weekend of March, recreates the arrival of the Pinta with a medieval market.
The Portuguese Camino in Baiona
The official route crosses the town without passing along the seafront promenade or Monterreal: you have to make a detour to see them. From Baiona there are 4.5 km to A Ramallosa, the end of the stage, and 125.3 km (77.8 miles) to Santiago, enough for the Compostela on foot.
Frequently asked questions
How many albergues are there in Baiona?
This guide lists 12 places to stay for pilgrims in Baiona, with checked prices, beds and seasons.
Do they give the Compostela from Baiona?
Yes, on foot: it is 125.3 km (77.8 miles) to Santiago on the usual stages, above the 100 km the Pilgrim’s Office requires. Not by bike, because they ask for 200 km.
Does the Camino pass through Monterreal?
No: the official route crosses the town through the interior. The fortress and the seafront promenade are a short detour away.
