Conjunto Histórico - Artístico de Baiona

The old town of Baiona was declared a Historical-Artistic Site by the Dirección Xeral del Patrimonio (Directorate-General of Heritage) in 1993, on the occasion of the 5th centenary of the Arribada festival, which commemorates the arrival of the Caravel Pinta announcing the discovery of America. It is protected by the General Urban Development Plan and the Special Protection Plan for the Historical-Artistic Site of Baiona (PGOU and PEPCHAB respectively), which limit the height of buildings and the quality of their materials. Although part of the old town is between the Burgo (Santa Marta peninsula) and Sabarís, its focal point is located in the municipality’s centre and forms an almost closed circle. Baiona is synonymous with good port, the first to know of many moments in history, such as the discovery of America. The cobbled streets are filled with manor houses such as the Pazo Correa from the 18th century, which presently houses the Council of Baiona, and temples such as the former Collegiate Church of Santa María from the 13th century, of fortified appearance and Roman and Gothic styles. The old town can be accessed from three points: the Santa Liberata square, the Padre Fernando square and the Cruceiro de la Trinidad, a Calvary cross which dates back to the 15th century.