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This industrious
city is the most populated one in Galicia. From its ancient origin,
it occupies a privileged location on the coast, not far from Tui.
In the 16th century its port was a point of important international
trade. The raids of Drake, which affected the city, also gave rise
to many other struggles, whose turning-point came with the Battle
of Rande and the sinking of the Galleons of the Indies. In the 19th
century, the city was a provincial capital for some time. More importantly,
its industrial and commercial achievements have made it a pillar
of the Galician economy. The Neo-classical Collegiate of Santa Maria
and the urban centre with its harmonious combination of quiet streets
and broad avenues, all deserve a mention. Another suggested visit
is the Quiñones de Lean Museum, which holds some important
collections, mainly of paintings. Not to be forgotten are the splendid
views over the ria and the nearby Cíes Islands, that can
be seen from O Castro, the A Gufa and the A Madroa.
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