Galicia is renowned for its pazos—historic noble estates that have been centers of the region’s cultural and social life for centuries. Built mostly between the 17th and 19th centuries, these manors served as residences for the aristocracy and played a key role in the local economy. Today, many are open to visitors, offering an immersive journey into Galicia’s history. While the Pazo de Oca has traditionally been the most famous, in recent years another equally remarkable estate has taken the lead in tourist numbers.
This refers to Pazo do Faramello, located in the Sar comarca, between the towns of Padrón and Santiago de Compostela. This baroque mansion was founded in 1710 by the Genoese aristocrat Bartolomé Piombino Farcinetti. Its uniqueness lies in its industrial origin: it once housed the Royal Paper Factory, the first of its kind in Galicia. The enterprise held an exclusive royal license to print official documents, which gave it a special status.
In addition to its industrial history, Pazo do Faramello boasts a rich natural and cultural heritage. The estate covers nearly 40 hectares, featuring 19th-century French gardens, vineyards, fruit trees, and ancient mills. It is also home to the ruins of a Celtic settlement known as castro celta de la Reina Lupa. The mansion is included in the prestigious European Route of Historic Gardens, the highest continental recognition for park ensembles.
The estate has witnessed significant historical events. In 1808, its walls saw resistance against Napoleonic troops, and later, some of the first Galician-language leaflets since the Middle Ages were printed here. The manor also served as a summer residence for King Alfonso XIII and Infante Ludwig of Bavaria. Its cultural importance was highlighted in the works of renowned writers such as Rosalía de Castro, Emilia Pardo Bazán, and Camilo José Cela.
The grounds of Paso do Faramello still feature a Baroque chapel, consecrated in 1727. Its main altar is the work of sculptor José Gambino, who contributed to the decoration of the cathedral in Santiago. Today, the estate is open to the public. Daily guided tours are offered for small groups and last about an hour and a half. Visitors can explore the interiors, stroll through the gardens, and visit the ‘memory garden’ dedicated to the victims of the Angrois train disaster.
