What else can surprise multifaceted Spain? Vigo is a modern city, immersed in the distant past

The sunny country, included in the top three in the most visited, offers a wonderful holiday, which you can enjoy every second. Beautiful beaches, warm sea, delicious dishes and an exciting excursion program - all this will appeal to travelers from all over the world. Possessing a rich culture, it is not in vain called Mecca for holidaymakers cheerful Spain.

Vigo, located in the north-west of the state, in the eponymous bay, does not have a lot of historical sights, however it will please with interesting architectural works, wonderfully complementing its appearance.

Industrial and tourist center

The large city of Galicia (the least visited region of the country), the first mention of which dates back to the 11th century, quickly turned from a small fishing village into a huge seaport where luxury liners moor. Its name comes from the Latin Vicus, which translates as "winner." Rapidly expanded over several centuries, Vigo has undergone many changes in the layout.

Previously, few knew about it from foreign travelers, but now the situation is changing for the better. The ancient settlement was appreciated by tourists, whom hospitality is admired by its beautiful Spain. Vigo, which preserved traditions and customs, coming from the depths of centuries, resembles a typical port city. And at the same time it is the leading industrial area of Galicia: there are shipbuilding and automobile factories, and the main employer of the whole region is Peugeot Citroën.

Recently, one of the important roles in economic well-being is played by the tourist business: every year thousands of guests from other countries visit Vigo to spend their holidays on the luxurious beaches and to admire the main attractions. Spread along the coast, it is a delightful sight. A lively commercial center, where nature has created ideal conditions for recreation, offers different options for leisure activities.

Vigo (Spain): Beaches

The shipping center is surrounded by 45 wonderful beaches, included The Guardian in the top ten in the world for the ideal quality of water and sand. Unfortunately, they are not very known to tourists. Quiet and peaceful people like those who dream of solitude, and lovers of outdoor activities who come to the city of Vigo (Spain), will choose the popular places, such as Samil or Argazada. These are huge beaches with numerous shops and restaurants, equipped with parking for cars and inventory for water sports.

The Islas Cies area, which consists of three islands that block the way to the cold winds of the Atlantic, is the most popular holiday destination for Spaniards and tourists. A shallow white beach of the island of Ilya-Norte, recognized as the national pride of the country, is considered the best in Galicia. This amazing place is ideal for relaxing with children and attracts a close location to the national nature park where you can have a wonderful time.

Casco Vello

Acquaintance with Vigo (Spain) begins with an inspection of the historical part, located near the harbor. There are luxurious palaces in Galician style and very modest houses built during the Middle Ages. Tourists, strolling through the labyrinths of cobbled streets and looking at old buildings, it seems that time has stopped here. Wandering through the picturesque area, immersing in the distant past, you can see the Cathedral of Santa Maria, made in neoclassical style. The first temple on this site appeared seven centuries ago, and since then the structure has been rebuilt many times, radically changing its external appearance.

The Royal Street, which descends to the first port, is the main one in Casco Vello, and it houses beautifully preserved fishing huts.

Unusual architectural appearance

Colorful Vigo experienced two centuries ago rapid economic growth, which affected its architectural appearance. This is one of the few settlements that are famous not only for the historical part, but also for the "new" Old Town where mansions were built in the traditional Galician style, which were decorated with beautiful facades. And the brightest example can serve as the most luxurious building - the Garcia Barbon Theater, built in the 20s of last century. It is a real palace of arts and an important cultural center.

It is curious that the "new" Old Town does not occupy a certain place on the map of the Spanish pearl, and tourists will not be able to find it. The richly decorated mansions are scattered all over the streets, and on each of them there is an architectural masterpiece. And the closer the present historical region, the more they will meet on the way of the holiday-makers.

Center of the industrial center

But the center of the modern city is the Plaza de España (Plaza de España), which is of interest to tourists. In her heart there are works of a famous modern sculptor, made in a variety of styles - from abstract to realistic. The monument depicting wild horses ascending to the sky is considered a symbol of Vigo (Spain), whose sights are few, but very curious.

What else to see?

The embankment of Vigo, turned into an art gallery in the open air, will please tourists with sculptural compositions, and numerous cafes always wait for their visitors.

In the south of the city stands Castro Castle, which appeared in the XVII century, while Portugal was at war with Spain. Vigo was constantly attacked by British sailors, and there was a need to protect him from attacks. Now on the territory of the defensive structure, from the observation deck which offers stunning panoramas, gardens and paths for walks are broken.

Fish market smelling market Pedra is a real paradise for gourmets, where fresh and cooked delicacies are sold.

A charming city is that very real Spain. Vigo, untouched by mass tourism, will surprise with a benevolent atmosphere, amazing landscapes, fishing areas, which makes it an attractive place for holidaymakers.