
17.4 San Adrián
Here we see the area known as Amandi on the other side of the river, which is a subzone of the Ribeira Sacra Designation of Origin. These terraced vineyards are some of the steepest in Ribeira Sacra, and they also happen to produce some of Galicia’s most famous wines.
There are 185 hectares of grapevines in Amandi, cultivated by more than 300 growers, with the grapes they produce then turned into wine at 33 wineries (data source: Ribeira Sacra D.O. 2022). Since 1981, the municipality of Sober has been showcasing the local wines at its annual Amandi Wine Fair. This event is held on the weekend before Palm Sunday, and it is now officially recognised as a Galician Festival of Tourism Interest.
NECROPOLIS AT SAN VÍTOR DE BARXACOVA
Just up the hill, about two kilometres away, is the village of San Lourenzo de Barxacova. In addition to some outstanding views over the Sil River, this is where we can take a look at some of the impressive historical manor houses. With their coats of arms on display and distinctive decorations, these homes still exist as a reminder of this town’s economic importance in the past.
Next, just another 500 metres away, is the necropolis at San Vítor de Barxacova. This is a very old historical site known for its 35 anthropomorphic tombs carved directly into bedrock outcroppings. These tombs date back to the 10th century, when they were associated with a rural community that has long since disappeared. We also know that a chapel once stood at one side of the site, atop a massive stone, and perhaps another even older structure, although just a few traces of these buildings have survived.