Candás, Maritime parish in Carreño, Spain
Candás is a parish along the northern Asturian coast that stretches across a protected bay with a working port and traditional stone buildings facing the Cantabrian Sea. The area connects the urban beach of La Palmera to Cape San Antonio lighthouse through coastal cliffs and seaside pathways.
The port gained prominence in the 13th century when whale hunting became a major economic activity, with the nearby port of Entrelusa serving as an operational base. This maritime tradition remained central to the community's identity for generations.
The Church of San Félix shows Romanesque features from the 12th century and represents the spiritual core of this fishing community. Inside, a statue of Christ recovered from Irish waters by local fishermen serves as a testament to their maritime devotion.
The area is easy to explore on foot, with multiple walking routes connecting the beaches and coastal landmarks. Visitors should prepare for changeable weather and wear sturdy shoes, especially when walking across rocky shorelines and cliff edges.
In the mid-20th century, 24 canning factories operated at the same time, turning the place into a major fish processing hub for the entire region. This industrial past still appears in local museums and in how older residents talk about their town.
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