The Ria de Vigo is a study in contrasts, and a reminder to us of what makes cruising in the more developed world interesting. Take the lead photo, of Baiona, Spain (that’s the Galacian spelling, the Spanish spell it Bayonna). The enormous fort in the background dates to the 11th century. The red tiled roof to the right is the Montereal Club de Yates, a three time challenger for the America’s cup, contained within the fort complex.

The facilities are first class, of course, and the staff welcoming and happy to assist wandering cruisers.

And there is a lovely beach nearby and wifi on the docks.

The Ria de Vigo is Galicia’s industrial center. There are ship builders, a car factory, and the largest commercial fishing fleet in this part of the world.  The old is mixed with the new, and there is a vibrance which belies the current Spanish economic malaise about which we read in the press.

Yet there are lovely anchorages close by as well.

With beaches to explore.

Wind Horse, and her bare look, has felt at home in many fishing ports. She also fits in along with the Galacian clothing optional beaches.

As with many of the towns, Baiona dates back to pre-Roman times. The Celts left their mark, then the Romans, the Northern tribes after Rome retreated, the proto-Spanish, Moors, and Spaniards again. Through it all Galacia retained its own language and traditions. The street scene above is typical of the older part of town.

Although most construction work is in the modern style, there is plenty of restoration going on.

We are in the heart of smuggling territory, and the Aduana (Customs), Guardia (Police) and military have all been to visit. They have been unfailingly polite, and once paperwork has been completed, interesting to chat with.

That high definition camera pod probably has some nice photos of us. We’d love to trade (cool chopper too).

Throughout this part of the world are churches, shrines, and interesting windows.

There are even shrines to some of those who died at the hands of the Inquisition.

One of our interests is local fashion, of which an example above. Bet it is fun walking on cobblestones in those high heels.

This design, from the wall of an old hospital, may make it into an embroidery project next winter.

The local fishing fleet varies in design and color (we’ll address this in more detail in another blog). We passed this chap slowly, so as not to disturb him, but our booms were out and he may have thought we were a foreign competitor.

The Galacian children are adorable, and doted on by their parents. Who could resist a little miracle like this?

Now that summer is heating the land we are seeing a build up of thunderheads. Overdevelopment as they say amongst glider pilots. We are looking forward to the lightning shows.

One of our favorite things is “discovering” special places. This is a 12th century church, still in use, off the tourist track, which we had all to ourselves.

The cross has Celtic animalistic symbols.

Speaking of which, the graffiti (“the fight continues”) is the local communist party slogan. The light spot above is where Generalissimo Franco supporters during the Spanish civil war have had their names removed.

Speaking of shows, the moon has been doing its monthly act. A bit more yellow than we are used to, but interesting none-the-less.

A high res slide show with additional images is available here.