Pazo de Petán

Pazo de Petán is a 17th-century noble residence standing in the heart of Redondela, in Galicia, also known locally as Pazo de Santa Tereixa. It is one of the town's most recognizable landmarks — a stone manor with a tower, a garden, and centuries of history tied to the families who owned it.

Where does this manor house come from?

The building went up in the mid-17th century, commissioned by the Prego de Montaos family, one of the noble houses that held real influence in Redondela at the time. The pazo is also linked to Bishop Sarmiento de Soutomaior, who later served as bishop of Jaca and Mondoñedo and spent part of his life within these walls. By the 18th century the estate had passed to Francisco Borja Sarmiento, a nobleman who held lordship over several nearby parishes — a sign of how significant the property was within the region's landed hierarchy.

The manor's fortunes shifted again in the 20th century, when it was bought and restored by José Regojo, a businessman from the textile industry. That restoration is why the pazo still stands today in a condition that allows for visits and for hosting events.

What will you see there?

The building has two floors, and its most distinctive feature is a crenellated tower rising on one side of the façade, giving the whole structure an almost fortress-like silhouette — even though the pazo was always a residence, not a military post. The main façade is marked by long balconies and generous arched openings, both typical of Galician noble architecture from this era.

Just as memorable is the interior garden — a compact, green retreat that offers a pleasant contrast to the building's austere stone mass, and reason enough to linger rather than just snap a photo from the street.

How do you get there?

Redondela sits in the province of Pontevedra, right on the Ría de Vigo, a short distance from the city of Vigo. The town is well connected by regional trains and buses to both Vigo and Pontevedra, making it an easy stop while touring the Galician coast. Pazo de Petán stands in the historic town centre, within walking distance of the main train station, so a rental car isn't necessary to reach it.

When should you visit?

Spring and early summer are the best times to come, when the garden is at its most lush and the mild climate of the Rías Baixas coast makes for pleasant walks around town. Since the building is sometimes booked for private events, it's worth checking availability in advance if you're hoping to see the interior rather than just the façade and garden from outside.

Frequently asked questions

Can you go inside Pazo de Petán? The building currently functions as accommodation and a venue for private events, so interior access can be limited — check current conditions before your visit.

Why is the pazo also called Pazo de Santa Tereixa? That's the other name locally used for the same residence, used interchangeably with Pazo de Petán around Redondela.

How many floors does the building have? The manor has two floors, with a distinctive crenellated tower on one side of the façade.

How far is Redondela from Vigo? Just a short hop — a few kilometres, easily covered by regional train or bus in well under half an hour.