Lugo

Lugo is a city in the autonomous community of Galicia in north-western Spain. It is the capital of the province of Lugo and sits on the Miño River, about 100 kilometers southeast of A Coruña. The city is notable for its well-preserved Roman walls that enclose the historic center and have earned it UNESCO World Heritage status.

Founded in Roman times, Lugo grew through the Middle Ages around its religious and civic institutions. The old town is compact, with narrow streets and stone buildings that reflect a long urban history. The Roman walls, dating to the 3rd and 4th centuries, surround much of the historic quarter and include gateways and towers. They are among the best-preserved examples of ancient fortifications around a Spanish city and today are a defining feature of the city’s identity and a popular visitor site.

Key landmarks in Lugo include the Cathedral of Santa María, constructed from the 12th to the 14th centuries with Romanesque and Gothic elements, along with other churches and historic buildings that dot the old town. The city also preserves a number of squares, bridges, and civic spaces that illustrate its historical layering.

Cultural life in Lugo combines religious and secular traditions. The city hosts the annual San Froilán festival in autumn, featuring processions and regional gastronomy. Lugo lies on the Way of St. James pilgrimage routes, attracting walkers and pilgrims who explore the walls, the cathedral, and other historic sites as part of their journey.

Demographically, the municipality has a population in the tens of thousands. The economy centers on services, administration, education, and commerce, with surrounding rural areas contributing agricultural activity.