Church of Santa Susana, Santiago de Compostela

The Church of Santa Susana is a small Romanesque chapel tucked inside Alameda Park in Santiago de Compostela, a shaded spot locals favor for a quiet walk among old oak trees.

Where did this church come from?

The chapel was raised in the early 12th century on the orders of Archbishop Diego Gelmírez, one of the most powerful figures in Santiago's history. It was built to house the relics of Saint Susanna, brought from Braga in Portugal in 1102 — according to chronicled accounts, their acquisition was the result of a bold, almost forcible expedition organized on the archbishop's orders, aimed at boosting Santiago's standing as a center of pilgrimage and worship. Centuries later, in the 20th century, the relics were eventually returned to their place of origin.

The church was built on the site of a former Celtic castro, a fortified settlement predating Roman times, which back then stood surrounded by dense oak woodland. That grove gave its name to the surrounding green space — still known today as the Carballeira de Santa Susana, forming the upper stretch of the Paseo da Ferradura, one of the main walkways through Alameda Park.

What will you see there?

Little remains of the original Romanesque structure — the church underwent repeated rebuilding over the centuries, and the building seen today dates mostly from the 17th century. It is a modest, single-nave chapel whose appeal lies less in grand architecture and more in its history and setting. The surrounding gardens were donated to the city in 1546 by the Counts of Altamira, and today they form one of the most cherished corners of Alameda Park, lined with old trees and shaded benches.

Alameda Park itself, where the church stands, is known for its viewpoints over the cathedral towers and the rooftops of the old town, making a stop at Santa Susana a natural addition to any walk through the city center.

How do you get there?

The church sits inside Alameda Park, just a few minutes' walk from the historic center and the cathedral. The easiest way to reach it is on foot — the shortest route runs from Praza do Obradoiro through the park, with no need for public transport.

When is the best time to visit?

The park and its paths are open year-round, and each season brings a different mood — lush green oak canopies in spring and summer, and a golden glow from fallen leaves in autumn. Early morning or late afternoon tends to be quietest, with softer light around the church and its surroundings.

Frequently asked questions

Can you go inside the Church of Santa Susana? It is a small, intimate chapel whose main draw is its location within the park rather than a regularly open interior. Treat a visit here as part of a broader walk through Alameda Park.

Why was the church built in this exact spot? Because a Celtic castro surrounded by oak woodland once stood here, and Archbishop Gelmírez chose it as a fitting site to enshrine the relics of Saint Susanna brought from Braga.

Has the original Romanesque architecture survived? Only in part — the church was rebuilt several times, and its current form dates mainly from the 17th century.

How long does it take to walk from the city center? From Praza do Obradoiro, it's just a few minutes on foot through Alameda Park, making it an easy stop on a stroll around the city.