Lugo Province

This favoured province is arguably the most beautiful in Galicia.

The area is dominated by a river system that runs from the central areas towards the northern coast, the Rias Altas, and these, coupled with the ‘generous’ climate when it comes to rainfall provision, ensures that the countryside maintains a year-round verdant layer of vegetation.

Lugo's history is turbulent. Armies of conquest frequently marched across the terrain and the drums of war often beat a staccato of fear that permeated over the horizon.

These times were punctuated with long periods of stability that enabled the area to consolidate and to ensure that the crops were collected.

Apart from ancient stone age populations, the Romans were the first organised civilisation to conquer this area. However, subjugation of the indigenous Celtic population was never fully achieved and continuous rebellions marked the Roman period here.

Although the Arabs didn’t manage to retain a foothold in Galica, their presence further to the south didn’t go unnoticed and their many raids destroyed population centres several times.

Medieval times saw a great increase in the power of the Church and it was at this time that many of the romanic churches and monasteries that dot the countryside were built.

Highly important in any commentary about Lugo is the rich gastronomic tradition that the province has always maintained. Amongst the most important and got-to-be-tried dishes are the ‘pulpo á feira’ with a squid base and the many varieties of fresh and seawater fish.

Many of these dishes are available during the fiestas that are held in all towns and villages throughout the year.

Routes and Places worth a Visit

Monfort’s location is in a fertile valley that flanks the River Cabe. The high, mountainous region to the north gives way to the south of lower lands of the River Sil on which grow some of the most succulent vines of the region. Here, not only is an extensive variety of crops produced, but the lands yield a huge variety of wines which form part of the Denominación de Origen de los Vinos de la Ribeira Sacra.

Important Fiestas

In Lugo between the 4th and 12th October, San Froilán, a hugely popular fiesta that is the stage for many traditional customs. Classic amongst these is a series of events such as verbenas (read knees up), theatrical performances, spectacular puppet shows and sporting competitions.

More information:

www.lugonet.com Official website in Spanish of the province of Lugo in Galicia. Under the 'Ocio y Tourismo' section there is a list of hotels and restaurants and other information.

www.turgalicia.es Wonderful page presented by the tourist board of Galicia in various languages, this site offers not only places to stay and eat in Galicia but also places to see. Excellent value.