The site was occupied until the 1st century AD, when it was largely abandoned in favor of Roman-influenced settlements in the valley.
Excavations have uncovered rare coins from the Roman Republican era, indicating trade networks that extended beyond the Iberian Peninsula.
Some of the circular dwellings feature traditional corbelled stone roofs, a technique used by Celtic tribes in the region for centuries.
The petroglyphs found on the site are considered some of the most significant examples of Bronze Age rock art in Galicia.
The settlement was strategically positioned to control the maritime routes along the Atlantic coast and the river access to the interior.
Castro de Santa Trega is an extensive late Bronze Age and Roman-era fortified hillfort located on Mount Santa Trega in A Guarda, Spain. It sits at an elevation of 341 meters, overlooking the mouth of the Miño River and the border between Spain and Portugal. The site features the remains of numerous oval and rectangular stone dwellings, some of which have been reconstructed to show traditional construction methods. It served as a major center for the Gallaecian people before and during the Roman occupation between the 1st century BC and the 1st century AD. Archaeological excavations began in the early 20th century, revealing significant pottery, jewelry, and weaponry. The onsite museum houses artifacts retrieved during these digs, providing context for the daily lives of the inhabitants. The location also contains petroglyphs dating back to the Atlantic Bronze Age, pre-dating the settlement structures. A hermitage dedicated to Saint Thecla stands at the summit, adding a layer of later religious history to the site.
The vantage point near the summit cross, capturing both the circular stone dwellings and the river mouth in one frame.
Wear sturdy hiking boots as the terrain is uneven, rocky, and often slippery.
Bring windproof layers, as the high elevation on the Atlantic coast experiences significant gusty conditions year-round.
Walk the full length of the marked trails to see both the excavated ruins and the panoramic river views.
Do not wander off the marked paths, as the slopes of the hill are steep and unstable in areas not maintained for tourism.
The museum and site are typically open daily, but may close during periods of severe coastal weather or high wind warnings.
Do not climb on, sit upon, or touch the ancient stone walls or archaeological artifacts; maintain a respectful distance from the hermitage.
