Vigo, Spain is the main port city in the Galicia region (Northwest Spain). This tourist friendly city is easily navigated with foot power. During the cruise season, passengers can be seen on the cobblestone streets.
The old city is near the marina and includes some original fishermen houses. Berbés Quarter has narrow houses and places to taste fresh seafood. As you walk along the narrow and winding streets, watch for sculptures. Take note of the variety of architectural styles.
In this port, it is easy to avoid oversized sightseeing buses. However, if walking up steep hills isn’t possible, consider taking a taxi. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore culture and history. Take at least a half-day walk. You won’t be disappointed.
Vigo’s history was filled with invaders. Due to its prime Atlantic Ocean location, the Celts, the Romans, the Vikings, the British, and the French were enemies who attacked this port. As a result, the city’s growth was minimal until the 19th century.
In the 17th century, the residents of Vigo constructed a fortress on top of a steep hill. Despite this protective effort, future attackers were able to penetrate the structure and the city’s walls.
Today, one can visit Parque del Castro to capture a bit of history. This green space houses the remains of the fortress and O Castro Castle. While strolling through the park one can also enjoy the gardens and the spectacular views of Vigo and its estuary. There is no admission charge.
As you walk down from the hilltop, look for a small archeological site that traverses the side pathway. In the cordoned off area, you can visit ruins that date from the 2nd century BCE to the 3 century CE. This archeological site provides clues about the history and culture of Vigo’s first inhabitants. These people built villages with stone structures. Check the archeological website for the limited tour times.
Before You Go
Look into visiting one or more of Vigo’s museums.
Museo do Mar de Galicia (Galicia Maritime Museum)
Paso Museo Quinones de Leon (Castrelos Collection of Galician Art)
Marco Vigo Museum of Contemporary Art
While many Vigo tourists choose to travel outside of Vigo to Samil Beach, Baiona- The Fortress of Montreal, or Santiago de Compostela, a simple stroll through the streets of Vigo can be a refreshing way to experience Spanish culture and history.
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THE ABOVE ARTICLE WAS ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED ON NOVEMBER 10, 2015. IT IS BEING REPOSTED ON THIS SITE BECAUSE THE EXAMINER SITE SHUT DOWN EARLIER THIS MONTH.
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BIO
Sandra Bornstein is the author of MAY THIS BE THE BEST YEAR OF YOUR LIFE. It is available on Amazon.
Sandra’s memoir highlights her living and teaching adventure in Bangalore, India. She is a licensed Colorado teacher who has taught K-12 students in the United States and abroad as well as college level courses. Sandra is married and has four adult sons.
The memoir was a finalist in the Travel category for the 2013 Next Generation Indie Book Awards, the 2013 International Book Awards, the 2013 National Indie Book Excellence Awards, 2013 USA Best Book Awards, and a Honorable Mention award in the Multicultural Non-Fiction category for the 2013 Global ebook Awards.
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