Combarro

A fishing village where granite hórreos (raised granaries) line the waterfront, creating one of the most iconic images of rural Galicia. Stone cruceiros (wayside crosses) mark every corner of this village frozen in time.

Just 7 km from Pontevedra but with no through-traffic, Combarro preserves the atmosphere of a traditional Galician fishing village that the city lost decades ago.

History

Combarro, a charming fishing village in Galicia, is famous for its unique hórreos (traditional grain storage barns) and cruceiros (stone crosses) that line its waterfront and narrow streets. Its history is deeply rooted in maritime activities, with fishing, shellfishing, and small-scale agriculture shaping its development over centuries. The village's distinctive granite houses, many with arcades and stone balconies, are a testament to traditional Galician vernacular architecture.

While the exact origins are unclear, the village grew significantly from the 16th century onwards, developing its characteristic layout along the Ría de Pontevedra. The hórreos, usually found in rows facing the sea, were essential for storing corn and other crops, and their number and prominent placement signify the agricultural wealth of its inhabitants. Combarro's historical significance lies in its exceptional preservation as an authentic Galician fishing village, showcasing a harmonious blend of rural and maritime life, designated as a Historic-Artistic Site for its cultural and architectural value.

Highlights

• Largest collection of seafront hórreos in Galicia
• Traditional granite cruceiros (wayside crosses)
• Waterfront location on the Ría de Pontevedra
• Perfectly preserved Galician fishing village

How to get there

From Pontevedra, Combarro is a short and scenic 15-minute drive northwest along the PO-308. Regular bus services also connect the two towns frequently.

Explore nearby: Galicia guide · Pontevedra province · Castles of Pontevedra