Galicia, Spain

 VIGO, SPAIN

APRIL 30, 2025

Known as Spain’s “Gateway to the Atlantic,” the history of Vigo dates back to the Romans.  Today, Vigo is one of the largest cities in Galicia, Spain’s autonomous northwestern region with a rich farming and fishing heritage.  We planned to take the Cies Islands tour here but much cooler weather and rain was predicted so we cancelled the catamaran and strolled along the waterfront instead.

We did notice one pigeon with very bad table manners!

A CORUNA, SPAIN

MAY 1, 2025

The stunning Atlantic setting of A Coruna lends this historic city a wide-open feel that is unique in Spain.  The busses were lined up on the pier next to the ship, ready for the day’s excursions! 

The heart of Coruna is famous for its distinctive window balconies that adorn historic houses.  The glazed glass style of these balconies was originally created for ships so that navy captains could see in inclement weather.

The coastal San Anton Castle once defended the north of Spain from intruders coming in by sea.  

The city’s pretty bicycle-friendly promenade leads to the modern glass Millennium Obelisk monument, a state-of-the-art aquarium and the splendid sands of Orzan Beach.

A Roman-era lighthouse with its Hercules Tower has been in continuous operation since its construction 2000 years ago. Legend says that Charon was the ferryman of Hades, in charge of carrying the souls of the dead in exchange for payment of one obolus. The dead, coming from the river Acheron, had to cross the River Styx to reach their final resting place. On his descent into Hades to kidnap the hound Cerberus, who prevented the souls from reaching their destination, Hercules received the help of Charon, who transported him in his boat. This statue of Charon was chosen therefore to guard the Tower of Hercules and was created by Ramón Conde (who, incidentally, put his own face on it).

At Praza de María Pita, which is a huge square, you get a perfect view of Casa do Concello, the city hall of A Coruña.

As we walked along the cobblestone streets, the guide told us to watch for the “frogs.” These were painted periodically to help children find their way to school.

These are just some additional photos of this beautiful and vibrant city.