Galicia, made up of four provinces, is one of the 17 Autonomous Communities into which Spain was divided following the death of Franco. This presentation will explore the history of the region, principally through a comprehensive tour of its landscapes and architecture.

Many cultures have made Galicia their home: Stone Age and Bronze Age tribes; the Iron Age Celts; the Romans; the Suebi; the Visigoths; and the Moors, who conquered Spain in the 8^th century, but whose occupation of Galicia was short lived. The kingdom of Galicia soon became part of Asturias and was eventually absorbed, in turn, by León and Castile.

We shall explore the north and west coasts, traverse the mountains, follow the principal river (the Miño), and visit the seven most important cities: the provincial capitals (A Coruña, Lugo, Ourense, and Pontevedra); the seat of the regional government, Santiago de Compostela; the largest city, Vigo; and Ferrol, a naval town.