Located in the heart of the Rías Baixas, Marín has one of the most fascinating archaeological heritages in all of Galicia. In its mountains, under the intense green of the oak and eucalyptus trees, there is a thousand-year-old legacy engraved in stone, full of mysterious figures, labyrinths, dolmens and fortified settlements that allow us to travel back thousands of years.
More than a dozen rock ensembles, together with burial mounds, menhirs and fortified settlements that make up one of the largest concentrations of prehistoric art in the northwest Iberian Peninsula. A journey through thousands of years of history that unites places such as Mogor, Chan de Castiñeiras or Castro de A Subidá.
But how did the prehistoric communities that inhabited these lands live? What do those circles and spirals that they left engraved on the stones mean?
The importance of rock art in Marín
About 4,000 – 5,000 years ago, the first agricultural and livestock communities that inhabited the Morrazo left their mark on the stone as a form of communication, rite or perhaps cosmic contemplation. Dozens of inscriptions, spirals, concentric circles, labyrinths or zoomorphic figures that today continue to be a source of fascination.
Marín was one of the epicentres of Galician megalithism, which was manifested in the construction of burial mounds, menhirs and dolmens. Some of them are more than 4,500 years old.
In addition, the “castro” culture, later in time (between the eighth century BC and the first century AD), completed this legacy with its fortified settlements. Therefore, we can say that human occupation in Marín was constant from the Neolithic to Roman times. A heritage that is still alive and that we can enjoy today.
Essentials of rock art in Marín
Some of the most emblematic places that are part of this stone universe are:
1. Burial Mounds of Lago de Castiñeiras
Located in the heart of Monte de Castiñeiras, within the nature reserve that Marín shares with Vilaboa, the burial mounds make up one of the most important megalithic ensembles in Galicia. Dated around 3,000 B.C., these so-called “mámoas” served as collective burials.
The most famous, Mámoa do Rei, which stands out due to its dimensions and its similarity to the Dolmen of Axeitos in Ribeira. In fact, its location is not accidental, but it is located in an elevated area dominating the surroundings. It is therefore believed that, beyond its funerary use, it may have had a ceremonial function, perhaps as a meeting point or site of ancestral worship.
A few metres away we find the Menhir de Currás, a monolithic rock weighing more than nine tonnes that is more than 4,500 years old. A unique menhir in Galicia that could have served as a territorial marker or as a symbol of fertility.
2. Mogor Petroglyphs and Heritage Interpretation Centre
If there is an iconic place within Marín’s rock art, it is Mogor. The petroglyphs in this area are among the most studied and photographed in all of Galicia, and no wonder.
The most famous is the Rocha do Labirinto, with its hypnotic design of circles and spirals that has given rise to all kinds of interpretations. Some researchers believe that it could represent an astronomical map or an initiatory path, while others relate it to the cycle of life.
In the same area is the Mogor Archaeological Heritage Interpretation Centre (CIP de Mogor), where you can learn more about the engravings, how they were made and their historical context.
3. Castro de A Subidá
To finish our historical tour, we cannot forget Castro de A Subidá, one of the best-preserved fortified enclosures in Morrazo. This Romanized fortified settlement occupies about 4 hectares and features a complex defensive system with a double wall.
It dates from approximately the fourth century BC., and an agricultural, livestock and seafaring community developed in it that took advantage of the natural resources in the surroundings. We can still see the circular bases of the houses and remains of watchtowers. But also, from the top of the hillfort, the views over the estuary are spectacular.
The best rock art routes in Marín
One of the best ways to discover rock art in Marín is to do it on foot. A fantastic experience to enjoy the rich Galician heritage, but also contact with nature.
Route 1: From Mogor to Castro de A Subidá
Approximate duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Distance: 6 km (round trip).
Difficulty: medium-low.
This route is ideal for the morning, featuring shaded areas and benches for resting.
We start at the CIP of Mogor, where we recommend doing the interpretive visit first (about 30 minutes). From there, we will take the signposted path that ascends gently inland, passing through a beautiful landscape of pine forests.
In less than 20 minutes, we will arrive at Pedra dos Campiños, another rock panel with engravings of concentric circles and serpentiform motifs. We will continue walking until we reach Castro de A Subidá, where we can explore the enclosure and enjoy the views.
Route 2: Lake Castiñeiras and Chan de Castiñeiras
Approximate duration: 3 hours (complete circuit).
Distance: 7 km.
Difficulty: medium.
We leave from the parking lot of Lake Castiñeiras, a perfect recreational space to spend the day. From there, in just 15 minutes on foot, we will access Mámoa do Rei and the series of burial mounds that surround it.
The route continues towards Menhir de Currás, crossing a wooded area. In total, the circuit is completed in about three hours at a leisurely pace, with enough time to stop at each monument. In addition, if you are accompanied by children, this is a highly recommended excursion. The trails are easy to follow and there are picnic areas near the lake.
Route 3: Circular route of Marín’s rock heritage
Duration: one full day (6-7 hours).
Distance: 14 km approx.
Difficulty: medium.
For the more adventurous, there is the possibility of linking the two previous routes and completing a circular route that combines the main enclaves of rock art and “castro” art in Marín.
The itinerary starts from Mogor, ascends to Castro de A Subidá and then continues to Chan de Castiñeiras, passing through rural and forest areas. It is advisable to bring water and food, suitable footwear and, in the summer, sun protection.
Thus, Marín offers the possibility of discovering the most mysterious engravings of the Bronze Age and the remains of the “castro” culture that marked the identity of the northwest Iberian Peninsula. It doesn’t matter that we don’t know the meaning of each symbol, but we assure you that you will be able to feel the emotion of those who, thousands of years ago, captured their vision of the world on the rock. And that emotion, that silent connection between past and present, is what makes the visit truly unforgettable.