The eighth Recoñecemento honours two leading figures in Galician medieval historiography for their contribution to the study of the history of Galicia, the monastic world and medieval society.
On 11 September, the Real Mosteiro de Oia held its eighth Recoñecemento, this year dedicated to historians Ermelindo Portela Silva and Mª del Carmen Pallares Méndez, two leading figures in the study of medieval history in Galicia.
The event brought together family members, institutional representatives, researchers and people connected to the careers of the two honourees in the Mosteiro’s Plaza de Armas. Throughout the event, former students and colleagues reflected on their work as academics and researchers, while also sharing anecdotes and memories from their time in academia.
A lifetime dedicated to the study of medieval Galicia
Ermelindo Portela, Emeritus Professor at the University of Santiago de Compostela, has focused his research on the social history of Galicia between the 8th and 13th centuries, particularly on medieval territories, society and structures of power.
Mª del Carmen Pallares, Honorary Professor at the University of Santiago de Compostela, has built an extensive research career focused on the monastic world, kinship structures and the role of women in medieval society.
Both have also developed an important body of joint research, with their work contributing to a deeper understanding of medieval Galicia and its historical and social development.
During the event, Ermelindo Portela also recalled the connection between the Mosteiro de Oia and his research, dating back to the 1970s — a relationship that was once again highlighted during this year’s recognition.
The Mosteiro cloister and the latest archaeological discoveries
The day concluded with a special visit to the cloister of the Real Mosteiro de Oia, where the latest archaeological discoveries made in this area were presented.
The visit offered participants an insight into the ongoing research being carried out across the monastic complex, which continues to provide new information about the history and development of the Mosteiro.
The eighth Recoñecemento of the Real Mosteiro de Oia thus continues an initiative that, each year, honours individuals whose work has contributed to the understanding, preservation and promotion of Galicia’s cultural heritage.
