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Vigo History, Spain

Located in the region of Galicia, life in Vigo, like in its neighboring towns and cities, has constantly been influenced by the sea. There was once a pre-Roman settlement located at the current site where this city is found. Take your trip in the past by looking at Vigo History.

Vigo History – Roman Occupation to Middle Ages

From the time the Romans occupied Vigo until the Middle Ages, the place was no more than a group of small towns and parishes. It had always been a place attacked by foreigners due to its location (village near the sea). Because of this, Vigo did not experience much expansion and development of territory.

Vigo History – English and Dutch Attacks

Vigo, similar to many coastal villages in Europe, had suffered hostilities from the Vikings, the Normans, and attacks even from the English and the Dutch.

In the 18th century, The English and the Dutch fought with Spanish fleets off the coast of Vigo. These ships were returning from their voyage to South America and were sunk by the alliance of the two countries. This legendary sea battle was known to be the Battle of the Rande. According to myths, the treasures from the Spanish fleets were lost in the battle and that the cove in Vigo still gives shelter to this missing wealth.

Vigo History – 19th Century

The rise of Vigo began in the 19th century. First, in 1809, the town was able to defend itself from the attacks of the French army – considered as one of the most important events in Vigo History.

Shortly after that, Vigo started to become a developed town and its residents increased in number. Vigo welcomed change and made its way to turning into an industrial powerhouse.

With the rise of Vigo came the destruction of the ancient walls and fishermen’s houses that had been a part of the town for centuries. The city expanded its borders and its commerce revolved around canned goods and salt.

Vigo History – 20th Century

By the 20th Century, Vigo’s seaport persisted to expand making the town’s wealth expand as well. History witnessed the successes the city was experiencing. The town started to trade with the countries on the American continent and with the rest of the cities and towns in Spain.

Apart from the economic growth Vigo was enjoying, the town had also grown in terms of infrastructure. The construction of new big and majestic buildings was done and gave Vigo a 20th century heritage in the field of architecture. At present, it is a successful industrialized city. From humble beginnings, Vigo grew to become a city of wealth and influence.

Vigo History shares the humble beginnings of other cities and municipalities in Spain. Explore the country by reading the Sevilla Travel Guide and Pamplona Travel Guide. These are cities that are close to Vigo.

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