As Neves facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
As Neves
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Motto(s):
Muy noble
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Location of As Neves within Galicia
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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)
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• 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.
Contents
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
In Spanish: Las Nieves (Pontevedra) para niños