In Galicia, you’ll see a beautiful mix of Celtic culture.
In the northwest corner of Spain lies an unexpected region where Celtic culture can be found amongst the panoramic mountain ranges, cliffs, and the Atlantic Ocean. Very different from the rest of crowded, modernized Spain, Galicia is at once reminiscent of both Ireland’s sweeping vistas, complete with its signature perpetual fog, and Scotland’s lively, thriving Celtic culture, with bagpipe players performing on almost all the main streets for tips.
The language used for every important business (banking, law, medicine) in Galicia is called Gallego. It is a derivative mix of Gaelic and Spanish languages. Impossible to read for Spanish-only-speakers and difficult to understand, it is best to stick to Spanish in Galicia. Most of the population, especially the younger generations, have learned Spanish all their lives and are more than happy to help out a tourist.
The food is distinctive as well. Instead of the rich, heavy Mediterranean fare found throughout most of Spain, in Galicia most meals consist of light soups and various types of fresh seafood. A must-try is the local dessert, Torta de Santiago. It is a light, fluffy almond cake dusted with powdered sugar (usually in the shape of a cross, as it is a very Catholic region,) and can be easily addicting.
Despite its differences from Spain’s other regions, Galicia does still manage to retain a classical Spanish charm that sets it apart in a Celtic country. The pace of daily life is laid back and stress relieving, the people are exceedingly friendly, and all of the dogs on the streets wear their own miniature raincoats.
Article written by Constance Deng.
