Experience Galicia’s ancient history at the Roman walls of Lugo
Experience authentic Galician life in the enchanting city of Lugo. Much of the city’s fascinating appeal is owed to the imposing Roman walls that circle the Old Town, considered to be amongst the best-preserved ancient walls in the world.
Within these grand walls lie an alluring network of charming squares and streets, most of which are void of traffic, meant for pedestrians only as a place to meander and muse through the many interesting items of sale in Old Luga, or enjoy idling away an afternoon in one of the city’s many great tapas bars.
So well-preserved and compelling are Lugo’s ancient walls that in the year 2000, the site was awarded with a UNESCO World Heritage status.
The walls were built to defend the city in the latter part of the 3rd century. The walls are intact for the whole periphery of the Old Town and are hailed as the finest example of Roman fortifications in Western Europe, running over an incredible 2.2 kilometres and occupying an area of 1.68 hectares.
The walls, which rise to 15 metres high, comprise of 85 external towers, as well as ten gates, four staircases and two ramps, providing wheelchair access for any visitors that require it.
Despite being erected to defend the city from invaders, Lugo was taken by the Suevi in 460 and by the Muslims three centuries later.
Naturally, walking along the ancient walls is a popular tourist attraction of the city, their elevated position providing the perfect view to take in many of Luga’s ancient sites and unique architecture.
Asides strolling along this commanding urban fortress, Luga is a bustling Galician city that has plenty going on to enthral all ages, all year round. A pleasant blend of ancient and modern dominates the city, with Gothic, Baroque and Romanesque buildings interwoven between contemporary landmarks.
Food is also a serious business in Lugo, particularly seafood, with the likes of fresh sardines and octopus served daily in the busy restaurants and bars.
If you are holidaying in Spain’s verdant and beautiful province of Galicia, making a trip to the ancient city of Luga part of your itinerary, will be rewarded with a fascinating day out.