Santa Cruz de Oleiros Castle

Travels/August 28, 2024

In the north of Galicia, on the right bank of the Ria do Burgo, there is a small island (1.9 hectares) that houses a large medieval low castle. It served as a watchtower for the Ria de A Coruña. Today it is located in one of the most representative tourist areas of northern Galicia, near famous beaches such as Santa Cristina, Bastaiagueiro, Canido, Mera and Santa Cruz itself, located opposite this small island connected to the mainland by a wooden pier.

Castles have something mysterious about them, and those located on the ocean's shore additionally impress with an amazing view. The castle is surrounded by a high the water looks much more attractive, but sometimes you have to wait several hours for the tide to come in. The castle's surroundings themselves are very attractive, beautiful views, exotic vegetation, historical remains.

Brief history of Santa Cruz Castle

In the 16th century Don Diego Mariñas wanted to protect the mouth of the bay by building this defensive bastion. Construction of the Santa Cruz Castle lasted until 1640. Its location so deep in the estuary was due to the fact that the other shore was already well manned by the fortresses of San Antón and San Amaro. To this end the captain-general ordered the construction of a bastion to stop Norman incursions.

In the following centuries the castle lost its defensive character and was the residence of various nobles. Around the 19th century, the castle was abandoned until José Quiroga (husband of Countess Emilia Pardo Bazán) bought it. His son-in-law, General Cavalcanti (1910), built a pazo inside. His death, which was heirless, led to the castle being donated to the Cavalcanti Corps (1938), to which the general belonged, which used it as a summer residence for military orphans until the 1960s Today,

the castle of Santa Cruz de Oleiros is the headquarters of CEIDA (Center for the Expansion of Universities and Scientific Dissemination of Galicia) and is undoubtedly a symbol of the municipality of Oleiros, declared a Cultural Resource. Santa Cruz is also a great biological resource. Up to seven species of gulls can be seen here, as well as herons, terns and cormorants. Most of these are birds native to northern Europe, which come here in winter to rest and feed.

The castle is surrounded by a promenade, from which you can enjoy a beautiful view of the city of A Coruña. Admission to the castle is free, and in the area we can easily find parking space and cozy cafes serving delicious coffee.

When going to Santa Cruz, you need to remember to check if the castle will be open, it is currently closed on Sundays and Mondays.