We only stayed here for two days and I spent most of the time staring at the ceiling, with one short walk. Jeremy explored the pilgrim route out of the town, down to the river. So, this is a very brief look at Vilalba.
Read more: VilalbaA brief history
Vilalba is the capital of the region known as A Terra Cha which hides away between Lugo and the coast. It is an upland plateau of grasslands, bordered by mountains, and there is a lot of water – rivers and lagoons! This area is a major milk and dairy producing area, particularly known for its smoked cheeses.
Again, it is an area which has been inhabited over thousands of years, and there are many interesting sites to visit. Hmm, and I could hardly move – not ideal!
The Church of Santa Maria
The church stands across a small square from the Parador. It dates from the mid-18th century when it replaced a Romanesgue building.
It was Spanish National Day and the Guardia Civil Were lining up to process into the church.
Inside the church is quite plain and, we thought, rather ‘cold’.
The Town
I had a little walk into the town centre, but I have lost the photographs so Wikipedia is helping out. There is one main street in the town, lined with trees and flower beds, and very attractive, and this square, which has a fountain and large trees. It is a very pretty town centre.
The Camino
The route from Vilalba to Santiago is the final 100kms of the northern Camino, or the Camino del norte. This chap was just setting off as we were leaving. And while I was contemplating the ceiling, or perhaps even sleeping, Jeremy walked a small section from the Parador down to the river and back again.
Parador of Vilalba
The tower is all that remains of the 15th century castle of the Counts of Andrade. It is part of the Parador and offers six rooms, but it is dark inside. We stayed in the new building which looks out on to the tower.
Vilalba is definitely worth visiting but I had a rather quiet and subdued time there, as you can see. Fortunately we had planned two quiet days!
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