The misty forests and craggy bluffs of Ireland and Wales have long been symbolically linked to the Celtic legacy of the region. But evidence suggests that the Celts traveled beyond the northern islands, all the way down to the sunny shores of northwest Spain.
The autonomous region of Galicia, Spain, is the seventh Celtic Nation and the least known of the group. The other six include Ireland, Wales, Scotland, Cornwall, Isle of Mann and Brittany, France, reported the BBC. Beyond the sun and surf of the Spanish coast lie the same mysterious menhirs that dot the Irish countryside, and the region has its own collection of Celtic traditions that continue today — from ancient “pallozas” (stone huts believed to be Celtic) to summer solstice ritual bonfires.
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According to an article in the Journal of Interdisciplinary Celtic Studies, the Celtic tradition of Galicia is also apparent in what cities and towns there are called. Lugo, the name of a capital city, is derived from the Celtic warrior king Lugh. There are also ancient altars built for worshipping the goddess of wells and springs, Coventina.
If you’re looking for a vacation that combines Celtic heritage with warm weather, Galicia might be the best choice. Every year communities around the region celebrate the arrival of the summer solstice with bonfires, parades and the collection of herbs, said Spanish newspaper El Mundo. You can also visit the enormous art installation by Manolo Paz called “Menhirs for Peace.” The tall rocks were inspired by the region’s Celtic history and take advantage of the beautiful views of the Coruna seashore.
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