Sarria

In its architectural legacy, arising from the fact that the Pilgrim's Road to Santiago de Compostela passed through these lands, we can find examples of medieval structures for religious civil and military purposes.

The city was founded by Alfonso IX under the name of Vilanova de Sarriá. But these lands have been populated since ancient times, as the megalithic graves uncovered here reveal, although it is difficult to establish who the first settlers were. There are several archaeological sites and hill-fort remains in the area. The fact that the Pilgrim's Road to Santiago de Compostela passed through the area has given it a great many ecclesiastic buildings, and the same can be said of its medieval legacy, which has left several examples of civil and military architecture. We recommend stopping to take in the castle, the convent of Magdalena, the churches of Santa Mariña and El Salvador and, why not, to have a look at some of the objects sold in the many local antique shops. The town has beautiful natural spaces such as the recreational area of O Chanto, on the banks of the rivero Sarria. Lovers of outdoor activities can also go fishing and hunting in several game reserves, or go hiking and horse-riding. This is complemented by its delicious cuisine, chief examples of which are Galician stew, octopus, pie, meat on the grill, sausages and cold meats and especially game.