Today is an exciting day as we cross into Spain. The walk from Vila Praia de Ancora to A Guarda takes us first to Caminha in Portugal. Here, we will shuttle across the River Minho and the border to A Guarda in Spain.
Caminha (Portugal)
Caminha is a picturesque town in northern Portugal. It is located near the mouth of the Minho River and close to the Spanish border. Known for its medieval charm, Caminha’s historic center features narrow cobblestone streets and traditional Portuguese houses. The 15th-century Matriz Church and the Clock Tower are two notable highlights. The tower also offers panoramic views of the town and the river.
The town’s scenic waterfront along the Minho River provides beautiful views. Cafes and restaurants line the riverfront promenade where visitors can enjoy the local cuisine and watch the pilgrims walk by.
Caminha serves as an important stop on the Portuguese Coastal Way to Santiago de Compostela. The ferry service from Caminha across the Minho River to A Guarda in Spain is a unique feature of this route, adding to the experience of the coastal pilgrimage.
A Guarda (Spain)
A Guarda is a charming coastal town in the the region of Galicia in Spain. It lies just across the Minho River from Caminha. Known for its rich maritime heritage and stunning landscapes, A Guarda is now a vibrant fishing town. It also has a bustling harbor, which is the heart of its fishing industry. Indeed, the town is renowned for its fresh seafood. Visitors can enjoy these local delicacies in the numerous traditional seafood restaurants along the waterfront.
Historic buildings surround he town’s main square, la Plaza del Reloj. This square serves as a central gathering point for locals and visitors alike. A Guarda’s 16th-century Church of Santa María is also worth a visit.
The Castro of Santa Tecla
One of the town’s most significant landmarks is the Castro de Santa Tecla, an ancient Celtic hillfort dating back to the 1st century BC. This archaeological site provides insights into the region’s early inhabitants. It also offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the Atlantic Ocean and the Minho River. The site has provided valuable insights into the daily lives, culture, and architecture of the Celtic people who inhabited the region during the Iron Age. Excavations have revealed artifacts, tools, pottery, and other objects that offer a glimpse into the past. Within the fortified walls, circular stone huts were constructed to serve as dwellings for the inhabitants. These huts were made using a technique known as “cyclopean masonry,” which involves the use of large irregular stones.
