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Monday, February 16, 2015

Exploring Galicia: Carnota and the Largest Hórreo in the World

Last summer, after an afternoon with cousins and friends, we went to explore a park in Carnota said to have the largest hórreo in the world. 



A hórreo is a granary ubiquitous in Galicia and northern Spain. Hórreos are made of wood or stone and stand on pillars to avoid animals contaminating the stored food.

This particular hórreo was begun in 1768 and was then enlarged in 1783. The slits on the walls allow for ventilation. 





The property also includes a church and parish cemetery. 








When I first went to Spain, I was surprised by the cemetery layout and the "cubbies" that contain the deceased. My husband told me that the cemeteries are similar in South America, but they unique to me. 

Carnota is also known for its beach, the longest in Galicia, at almost 5 miles (7 km). The water is said to be a bit warmer than that at the northern beaches and in 2007, the beach was noted the second best in the world. 

Not the best beach shot, but I do love the look of this sky 



Where is your favorite beach? What do you love about it?





















17 comments:

  1. What interesting pictures. I just love the intricate details on those ancient buildings. As to my favorite beach? At present it is a toss-up between Destin, Florida and Tortola, BVI. But I have a feeling that any beach that includes me in a lounge chair with a rum drink will become my favorite!

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  2. O wow! Creepy and stunning at the same time!

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  3. May seem weird but I love all the old architecture. The church is really beautiful. Considering it's the only beach I've been to I love the beaches on Guam my favorite is Asan beach. Mostly because it's the beach with history. It was one of the landing points for the military when they were liberating Guam from the Japanese. It's also has some trails you can climb to see the view from the mountains. It's really nice.

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  4. Hi Kelly, Actually I think that's an amazing beach shot. Interesting Post and photos, love the glimpses into Galicia, even the cemeteries.

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  5. The church looks really pretty and so much history. I love the beach by my house because I can walk to it. ;)

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  6. I love exploring cemeteries and resting places in different cities/countries. Some of them are so beautiful, including this one!

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  7. Thank you, Christy! There is beauty everywhere. You just have to look around. :-)

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  8. There are so many beautiful churches and places to see around the world.
    Having a beach you can walk to is a gift...agreed!

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  9. The architecture is beautiful...it's not weird at all. :-) Your beach on Guam sounds beautiful. I can imagine why you love it so much!

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  10. Thank you, Laura! Florida has some gorgeous beaches. And Siesta Key, one of my favorites, was just named best beach in the U.S. I have never been to Tortola, but maybe someday. :-) Thanks again!

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  11. I've seen cubbies like that in Asia too! I guess when there's not enough land, you have to get creative. These are such beautiful places too :)

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  12. You're right...it must be a space issue. But an interesting thing about Spain, is that these cubbies are not permanent...the families have a "lease" type of situation, from what I understand. After so many years, the remains are released to the family for cremation or something. Interesting concept, for sure. Thank you for stopping by!

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  13. Oh! Interesting... so after a while you might have the task of moving things out of the cubby?! Hmmm...

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