kids encyclopedia robot

As Neves facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Quick facts for kids
As Neves
Coat of arms of As Neves
Coat of arms
Motto(s): 
Muy noble
Location of As Neves within Galicia
Location of As Neves within Galicia
As Neves is located in Spain
As Neves
As Neves
Location in Spain
Country Spain
Autonomous Community Galicia
Province Pontevedra
Comarca O Condado
Government
 • Type Mayor–council
 • Body Concello das Neves
Area
 • Total 65.99 km2 (25.48 sq mi)
Population
 (2018)
 • Total 3,892
 • Density 58.979/km2 (152.754/sq mi)
Demonym(s) nevense

As Neves is a small town in Galicia, Spain. Its name means the snows in the Galician language. It is located in the province of Pontevedra. In 2010, about 4,429 people lived there. Before 1904, the town was known as Setados.

Exploring As Neves' Landscape

As Neves is surrounded by interesting natural features. To the west, you'll find the valley of the Xuliana river. In the south, the Minho river valley forms a border with Portugal. The Termes river valley is located to the east. Finally, the Mountains of Paradanta rise in the north. These four elements shape the area's unique geography.

What As Neves is Known For: Economy

The main ways people make a living in As Neves involve nature. The forest and wood industries are very important. The town is also famous for its "Condado" wine. This wine is a special type from the Rías Baixas region, which has a "protected designation of origin." This means it's a unique product from this specific area.

You can also find tourist services here. Many people enjoy staying in the countryside. Local natural foods are also popular. These include lamprea (a type of lamprey eel) and requeixón or requesón. This is a fresh, soft cheese, often used to make delicious cheesecakes.

A Unique Celebration: The Santa Marta Pilgrimage

As Neves is famous for a special yearly event. On July 29th, people gather for a pilgrimage. This celebration honors Santa Marta de Ribarteme, who is seen as the patron saint of new beginnings. People who have gone through a very difficult time, like a serious illness, come to show their thanks for getting better.

Thousands of people visit As Neves on this day. The church of Santa Marta de Ribarteme often gets very crowded. If you can't get inside, you can still hear the service through loudspeakers.

A unique part of the pilgrimage involves special wooden boxes. People who are thankful for recovering from a tough time might carry these boxes. Sometimes, friends or family carry them in the boxes. This is a way to show their gratitude for overcoming a difficult period.

After a special mass around noon, the pilgrims walk to the town cemetery. Then, they return for a procession through the town. This event is a mix of serious reflection and joyful celebration. Pilgrims chant special words, like "Virgin Saint Martha, star of the North, we bring you those who saw death." At the same time, Roma musicians play music. Vendors sell food, including a local favorite: cooked octopus. Throughout the day and into the night, fireworks light up the sky. They mark the progress of the procession through the town.

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Las Nieves (Pontevedra) para niños

kids search engine
As Neves Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.