The route of the Shipwrecks

Costa da Morte.

The Costa da Morte is the most westerly coast of Europe, overlooking the infinity of the Atlantic Ocean from its cliffs and is the closest one to the American continent.

Since ancient times, this area has been considered the end of the world, the Finisterrae, and even some peoples viewed it as a kind of door to the afterlife. For thousands of years its incredible sunsets have impressed those who was lucky enough to enjoy them.

The shipwrecks.

To date, almost a thousand ships are said to have sunk and destroyed off the Costa da Morte. It is the sea cemetery with the most cataloged shipwrecks in our country. Approaching this area by sea has never been without risks due to its harsh nature and angry climate, so there are numerous stories of shipwrecks and sea-related disasters. From pirates and looters to merchant ships or freighters, they have landed at the bottom of the ocean. It is even said that it was sometimes the residents of the region themselves who lured the disoriented ships into the mist to loot them.

History and legends.

All of these actual events are not only recorded in history, but thousands of legends have been born that connect the real with the imaginary, the documented with the magical. Let us not forget that we are still on the edge of the steepest cliffs in Meiga Land, which even fascinated Jules Verne, and also in the Holy Land, where we can still visit the stone boat in which the Holy Virgin gave the Apostle Jacob has appeared.

Impressive landscapes.

Cliffs that hang over the sea, capes that flow into the ocean as if they wanted to reach the other side of the world, and almost untouched sand areas await us on this shipwreck route. We will also know places like the Natura 2000 network and the Birds’ Nature Reserves (ZEPA).

Culture, gastronomy and tradition.

Along this route of the shipwrecks we can learn the history of famous people who inhabited them, people who came from afar to settle at the end of the world and make their free spirit a unique way of life. Also the magical and busy life of the lighthouse keepers who guide the boats along a coast that would be impassable without them.

And of course the life of the people by the sea who dedicate their days to the ocean, which gives them life and so often takes it away. Because this coast has its pitfalls even for those who were born here and know it inch by inch.

Along this Ruta de los Naufragios we get to know their customs and gastronomy, which of course are also closely related to the sea. And of course their very own craftsmanship, which today reaches the whole world.

Departure from Santiago / Silleda / Lalín / Coruña