San Pedro do Allo Church is one of the main heritage attractions within the historic ensemble of the Torres do Allo, in the municipality of Zas. Built in the 16th century by Gómez de Riobóo “the elder”, this chapel adds an essential religious and symbolic dimension to one of the most emblematic sites in the Costa da Morte. From the outside, it immediately stands out for its sober appearance, the large square grilled opening dominating the façade, and its rare and distinctive side bell tower, a highly unusual feature in Galician religious architecture.
A visit to San Pedro do Allo Church reveals a Renaissance ensemble filled with architectural and artistic details of great value. At the main entrance, the figures of Adam and Eve make the doorway one of the building’s most recognisable features. The classical-style portal altarpiece recalls the design language used by the great masters working in Santiago de Compostela at the beginning of the 16th century. Alongside the seated carving of Saint Peter, who presides over the ensemble, there are also images of the Virgin and Saint Gabriel, while above the side door there is a representation of Saint Paul holding a sword. The vegetal decoration on the columns completes an elegant façade full of character.
Restored in 1989, the chapel is in excellent condition and preserves a harmonious interior, with a solemn presbytery, the main altarpiece and side altars dedicated to Saint Anthony of Padua and Saint Raymond, as well as the presence of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. Yet San Pedro do Allo Church is not only notable for its artistic value, but also for its historical meaning: in the lands of Allo, secular power was centred in the House of Riobóo, while ecclesiastical power was represented by this church. That balance and rivalry between both spheres can even be seen in the layout itself, with the chapel standing directly opposite the manor house façade.
