Viveiro, A Charming Town In Galicia
Galicia is one of the most diverse Spanish autonomous communities. Gastronomy, culture, architecture, landscapes and incomparable beaches are some of the things to enjoy in it. Its charming towns have a thousand secrets to tell you. Would you like to know any of them? Well, let’s go to Viveiro, a beautiful town in the province of Lugo.
There is much to see in Viveiro , a town that you will enjoy in every way. These are some of the places that you should not miss.
1. Playa de Covas, incomparable beauty
It is the best known beach, visited by locals and tourists who meet every year to enjoy the best hotels and restaurants in the area.
To get there, you can easily do it from the Misericordia bridge, located partly in the historic center of Viveiro. You will only have to walk two kilometers and you will find this beauty of nature with crystal clear waters, golden sands and boulders that come out of the sea.
2. Mirador de San Roque, guaranteed views
On Mount San Roque, about 350 meters above sea level, is this magnificent viewpoint that will offer you incredible views of the town and everything that surrounds it. The estuary, the beach and the town center will be in front of you. An unforgettable image.
3. Church of San Francisco, unparalleled spirituality
Erected on a promontory, is this beautiful church that will awaken your senses. Its external apse is considered the most beautiful in Galicia. This church belonged to the convent of San Francisco, which can be seen next to it and which today is used as a center for social services.
The facade of the church dates from the 14th century and has a Gothic style. Inside, its wall paintings and exquisite decoration will not leave you indifferent, they are impressive.
4. Plaza de Abastos, a memorable tradition
The food markets were formerly used as the only center in which to buy food. Although its use today seems outdated, there are many that are preserved in good condition and full performance. This is the case of the Plaza de Abastos de Viveiro.
It has been recently remodeled and is a one-story rectangular building that houses some of the best food stalls with fresh produce at great prices. Just visiting it to see what’s for sale in it is a feast for the eyes and, in some cases, the smell.
5. Puerta de Carlos V, living history
Like almost all Spanish cities, Viveiro was also walled. The Carlos V gate, which today serves as the main entrance to the town, remains as proof of this past. Although there are some others, this is the best preserved and the most important, as it leads to the main streets and its Plaza Mayor.
It is in the Plateresque style and at the back of the arch, in a wooden niche, is the image of San Roque, co-patron of Viveiro, who is famous in the surroundings.
6. Puente de la Misericordia, a cross between land and sea
It is the largest pedestrian access to Viveiro and its historic center. It is half a kilometer long and crosses the inlet of the Landro River, in the town’s estuary. It was built in ashlar stone and due to its age (15th century) and several renovations carried out on it, three of its arches are buried in the boardwalk.
7. Plaza Mayor de Viveiro, town center
Every beautiful place that is third has a square that is the heart of the town. Viveiro could not be less. Center for parties and shows at all times of the year and the largest entertainment center in the area. Cafes, shops, terraces, galleries and much more await you in this place that highlights the essence of Viveiro.
Write Galicia and its charming towns, especially Viveiro, on your list of next destinations. You have already seen that it offers you dozens of interesting places despite its small size. Are you going to miss it?
Cover photo: manuelfouce
