The Church of Santa María de Rus, located in Casal de Perros, in the municipality of Carballo, is one of the finest examples of religious heritage in the Bergantiños area. Due to its size, its hillside location and the quality of its architecture, it is considered the church with the greatest architectural value in the municipality and one of the most important examples of Baroque architecture in Bergantiños. Its imposing presence stands out in the landscape of Rus, making it an essential stop for those exploring the historic and monumental side of the Costa da Morte.
The construction of the church lasted almost two centuries, from the 17th to the 19th century, which explains the combination of different artistic styles within the same building. Although the Baroque style is predominant, the church also includes Rococo and Neoclassical features, especially in the straighter, more classical lines of the façade and in three of its altarpieces. Important master builders from Santiago de Compostela took part in the project, including Tomé del Río, who also worked on the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.
The history of the Church of Santa María de Rus is closely linked to the former monastery of San Martiño Pinario in Santiago de Compostela, on which the parish once depended. The monks of San Martiño promoted the construction of such a large and costly church during a period of agricultural prosperity, encouraged by the arrival of maize and potatoes from America. Over time, the church also safeguarded a valuable silver processional cross, probably from the 16th century and almost one metre high, regarded as a true jewel of Galician religious metalwork.
