Galicia - A Celtic Window Onto Spain

Tucked up in the northwest corner of Spain is the idyllic and quite magical region of Galicia. 'Separated' from the rest of Spain by impressive mountain ranges, Galicia is unlike any other part of Spain - and is certainly a world away from the Costas that flank the country's eastern and southern coastline. It is lush and green, and comprised of grassy hills, tree-lined valleys through which bubbling rivers gush, and extensive outcroppings of jagged rocks, especially along the shoreline. These are interspersed with a plethora of small beaches of the purest sands and many a tiny fishing village. Galicia is traditional Northern Spain at its best.
 
 A Celtic Heart
 
 Galicia is perhaps best known for its Celtic traditions. Legend has it that Galicia was in fact colonised by the Scots and the Irish. Whether this is true or not no-one can say for sure. What is fact though is that the Celts did indeed occupy Galicia from around the 10th Century BC. Archaeological evidence by way of extensive Celtic finds from the region supports this view.
 
 Today, the people of Galicia celebrate their Celtic roots with some verve. Celtic art is very much alive in the region, evidenced by the many tourist outlets that carry carvings and other Celtic artefacts. When travelling around Galicia you'll notice too that many place names have Celtic overtones - another sign of Galicia's bond with the Celts.
 
 Exploring Celtic Galicia
 
 Celtic Galicia really comes alive when you get out and about in the Galician countryside. The landscape here is littered with prehistoric monuments, the most frequently seen being the dolmens (burial chambers). From the Celtic era some of Galicia's hills proudly support the remains of castroes - fortified circular stone structures that were once surrounded by defensive moats. They are found all around the region. On the coast some of the best examples are situated at Barona, O' Neixon and at Fazouro. Inland, Castromao near Ourense and Santa Tegra to the north of Ourense are two locations where you'll find 'must-see' examples of castroes. Maps detailing these Celtic sites are available online and from tourist shops in Galicia.
 
 Getting around Galicia
 
 To appreciate Celtic Galicia it is highly recommended that you rent a hire car for the duration of your stay. Access to some Celtic sites in Galicia is by foot only. It is therefore advisable to take with you a sturdy pair of hiking boots.
 
 About the Author:
 
 Seb Jay is a freelance writer specializing in the origination of web content for http://www.your-carhire.com Car hire can be booked in advance for pick up at several locations in Galicia by visiting www.your-carhire.com ahead of your departure.
 
 Source: www.isnare.com