Its façade, with restrained Baroque style (18th century), does not reveal the importance of this medieval church, located on what was very likely the site of the old cathedral of Ourense, of which only a few columns and marble-like capitals remain, preserved in the current façade. We know from an inscription on one side that the church was rebuilt in 1084 after its devastation, and again in 1772.

The church cannot be understood without the monumental staircase that provides access, connecting the secluded Plaza de la Magdalena with the Plaza Mayor.

Access is through a guided tour managed by the Cathedral of Ourense.