Galicia

Map of Galicia } Map of Spain

Galicai. Santiago de Compostela, the cathedral

Galicia, Santiago de Compostela

Galicia, Pontevedra

Galicia, Lugo

Galicia, Muros

Galicia, Monforte de Lemos

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Monumental Cities and Towns
History and Geography
Cuisine
Festivals
Itineraries that feature this region
Accommodation in this region
Others

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Galicia: In the north-west corner of Spain, embraced by a sea carving out its coastline with fjord-like rias (estuaries), creating beaches and islands, surrounded by mountains that have isolated it throughout history we find this lush green emerald land, Galicia. Almost 19,000 square miles divided into four provinces: A Coruna, Lugo, Ourense and Pontevedra. Of the four, Ourense is the only landlocked province but, as compensation, it boasts the highest mountains.

The symbols of Galicia include the cruceiro- an elaborately carved stone cross on a tall column, and the horreo – sheds made of stone or wood with narrow slits, raised on stilts, for storing grain. In order to better understand Galicia, its small villages must be contemplated shrouded in a fine mist; a landscape that has remained unchanged for centuries.

Monumental Cities and Towns

Santiago de Compostela: One of the most important pilgrimage sights in the world, Santiago de Compostela was declared a World Heritage City by UNESCO. The city is made visible from afar by the spires of its cathedral, the welcome end of the road for pilgrims following the Camino de Santiago. The cathedral´s facade is among the most beautiful in the world and its interior is a magnificent display of Romanesque and Gothic opulence. The high altar is a dazzling creation in silver and gold. Some eight major monasteries and convents and innumerable churches contribute to the fame of a city ranked right behind Rome and Jerusalem as a place of Christian pilgrimage in medieval times. The superb 15th-century former Royal hospital, now the Parador de Santiago de Compostela, one of Spain´s most memorable hotels, is next to the cathedral. It is a vast musum of cloistered courtyards, tapestries and statues.

Pontevedra: lies inland, at the head of a long ria, a delightful town with a network of cobbled alleys and tiny squares with flower-filled balconies and fine tapas bars. Interesting sights include the old quarter, the 16th century Church of Santa Maria la Mayor, the Plaza de la Lena (with 18th century palaces) and the museum with treasures from the Celtic Bronze Age to paintings by Zurbaran and Goya.

Lugo: its Roman walls encircling the city are the best preserved in Spain and were declared Heritage of Mankind by UNESCO. They measure 1.5 miles and contain dozens of watchtowers and 10 gates. The medieval town also boasts a fine Plaza Mayor, Cathedral (Romanesque and Neoclassical), the 18th century Episcopal Palace and the 12th century Church of Santo Domingo.

Muros: its porticoed streets and the 15th century Church of San Pedro are a highlight of this delightful coastal village.

Monforte de Lemos: overlooking the town is a splendid fortress with homage tower. The old town walls and the Monastery of San Vicente del Pino are also important sights.

History and Geography

The Roman´s Finis Terrae (land´s end) was Galicia´s coast until the discovery of America. Great symbolism of stars is reflected on the discovery of the tomb of St. James (Santiago). Celtic art is also very popular around Galicia, with plenty of examples along the Rias.
With a surface area of 30,000 square kilometres, undulating relief and wide valleys, Galicia is the oldest land on the Iberian Peninsula. As the traveller reaches the shore, further delights lie in store along the 1300 km of coastline. Temperatures are mild: between 18ºC and 25ºC in summer and no lower than 8ºC in winter, depending on the area. Approximately 3 million people live in Galicia.

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Cuisine

As Álvaro Cunqueiro pointed out: “in the Christian cuisine of the West, there is no larder as complete as that of Galicia”. The variety of seafood found off Galicia's coasts is incredible, especially goose barnacles, oysters, lobsters and scallops. Delicious fish such as hake, grouper and turbot. Octopus is served during pilgrimages and sardines at festivals. Other dishes include savoury meats, soups, stews and excellent cheeses. Queimada is a typical (potent) liqueur, and special mention must be made of the splendid wines of Albariño, Rosal and Condado.

Festivals

May: Ribeiro wine celebration in Ribadavia, Ourense.
May to July: Rapa das Bestas (wild horse roundup) when wild horses are gathered for branding and to have manes and tails cut. Some are sold and the rest returned to the wild. Also the Ortigueira Celtic Festival.
October: Seafood celebrations in O Grove.

Others

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Itineraries that feature this region

Themed Spain Tours

Accommodation

Please click on the symbol to see the Spanish Hotels in this area and obtain information about each.