The Province of Galicia
Overview
Galicia is a small province in Spain which is popularly known as the land of thousand rivers. These rivers cross almost all the regions from the coast to the mountainous inland, where they form a typical Rias. However, the coast itself normally offers great distinctions from the sandy beaches of Marinas to the risky cliffs of Costa de la Muerte, which is also referred to as the coast of death.
The climatic conditions in this province are temperate and mainly during the winter, it rains and the minimum temperature is around 5 degree Celsius. During the summer, the maximum temperature is around 20 degree Celsius. From the frigid waters of Rias Altas and wild cliffs to the frantic industrial fishing ports of Rias Baixas, the province of Galicia possess one of the most abundant seafood coastlines in the world. Crustaceans, Mollusks, and countless fish stocks are some of the natural seafood’s of Galicia.
Whether the visitors are in the mood for highly prized goose barnacles, clams or swimming crabs, they can find a bounty full of striking seafood when the local markets open with countless crustaceans, mollusks, mussels, barnacles, scallops and spider crabs. The seafood that is found from the ocean or offshore is excellent. Whether it is octopus or spider crab, visitors are sure to remember the flavours.
Culture and Tradition
The earliest cultures of Galicia that left their tracks were Celtic while the Romans left an inheritance, the walls of Lugo, the tower of Hercules and the bridge of Ourense. Middle ages were manifested by the invention of the tomb of the Apostle of Santiago named Saint James. Many pilgrims coming to this place make their way to the cathedral of the newly founded town of Santiago de Compostela and also the world famous Way of Santiago which is also known as Camino Jacobeo or Way of Saint James. This town is flanked with lots of chapels, churches and monasteries of high historical and artistical value.
The folklore of Galicia clearly demonstrates its Gaelic and Celtic origins and one of the most typical instruments is the bagpipe or the Gaita. The local cuisine of this place is of great reputation for its mouth-watering sea food dishes especially Empanada Gallega which is a typical pie of fish and traditional sweets which are prepared in most of the monasteries.
Major attractions of Galicia
Santiago de Compostela – This place is the capital of Galicia and also one of the main tourist destinations which is a well-known pilgrimage and definitely amongst the most beautiful cities of Spain.
A Coruna – This city is of high economical significance and is located at a peninsula. Some of the main attractions of this city include the synagogue, the old quarter and the Romanesque Churches that offer interesting dissimilarities between the massive stone palaces and the fragile buildings.
Vigo – This is one of the most populated cities of Galicia that has some of the most important ports of the region. This historic place is well preserved and very appealing.
Pontevedra – This region is said to be one of the most striking places of Spain, mainly because of its spectacular landscapes of Rias Baixas. This city also offers an exceptional monumental centre.