Baiona's medieval town was formally established by Alfonso IX in 1201, when he granted its Carta Poboa (town charter) and privileges designed to concentrate maritime trade at its port. The charter regulated imports, fish salting and harbour taxes, linking Baiona to trading routes as far as northern Europe.
Traditionally dated to 1 March 1493, Martín Alonso Pinzón's arrival in the Pinta brought news of Columbus's first Atlantic voyage to Baiona. The event is commemorated each year in the Festa da Arribada.
What to see in Baiona
Fortaleza de Monterreal
About 3 km of walls surround the 18-hectare Monte Boi peninsula, with fortifications built and repeatedly altered between the Middle Ages and the 17th century. The Torre do Príncipe is traditionally associated with the imprisonment in 1137 of Afonso Henriques, the future first king of Portugal.
Museo da Carabela Pinta
The original Pinta, commanded by Martín Alonso Pinzón, reached Baiona on 1 March 1493 in poor condition and with its captain seriously ill. The ship was repaired and supplied with water and food here before continuing to Palos de la Frontera. The full-size museum replica recreates the vessel and its 1492-93 voyage.
Virxe da Rocha
Designed by Antonio Palacios of O Porriño, this 15-metre stone figure was begun in 1910 and inaugurated in 1930. Its face and hands are carved from white Carrara marble. A spiral staircase inside the statue leads to the small boat held in the Virgin's right hand, which serves as a viewpoint over the Atlantic.
Where to stay in Baiona
