Discover the Charms of Santonia: A Coastal Gem in Cantabria

Santonia: A Charming Coastal Town in Cantabria

Santonia, located on the shores of the Cantabrian Sea, is one of the most famous coastal towns in the region of Cantabria, Spain. With its rich history and beautiful surroundings, Santonia has played a vital role in the discovery of America and is renowned for its anchovies in olive oil. In this article, we will explore the key highlights of this charming destination.

The Fishing Port and Lonja

Santonia's history has always been closely tied to its location on the coast, with its fishing port being the second most important in the province in terms of volume and value of the catch. A visit to the port is a must, where visitors can witness the bustling activity of fishing boats unloading their daily catch, accompanied by the cries of seagulls soaring above the vessels.

Adjacent to the port is the modern Lonja building, surrounded by old abandoned canning factories. Here, visitors can purchase authentic anchovies in olive oil from Santonia, as well as other preserved seafood products.

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Mirador de las Marismas and Parque Natural de las Marismas de Santoña, Victoria y Joyel

The Mirador de las Marismas, a modern building resembling a transatlantic ship, offers stunning views of the surrounding marshes. It also houses the Visitors Center of the Natural Park of the Marshes of Santoña, Victoria, and Joyel, where visitors can obtain information about one of the most important wetlands in northern Spain. Next to the Mirador is the Santoña Marina, providing over 300 mooring points for recreational and artisanal fishing boats.

Promenade and Historical Monuments

A picturesque promenade stretches along the coast, leading visitors to the natural entrance of the Santoña Bay. Along this promenade, visitors can explore various historical monuments and remnants of the fortified complex that once protected the town.

Monuments and Forts

At the beginning of the promenade, there is a monument dedicated to the traditional sardine fisherman, recognizing their importance in Santonia's history. Nearby stands the Monument to Juan de la Cosa, a well-known navigator from the town who created the first world map and is considered one of the discoverers of America alongside Columbus.

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Other monuments include the Monument to Hispanic Heritage, dedicated to fishermen, sailors, and the faithful water dogs of Santonia, and the Monument to the Santoña Carnival, a festival declared of regional tourist interest.

Continuing along the promenade, visitors will pass by the Monument to Guerrero Blanco, a tribute to the former president of the Spanish government during the final stage of the Franco dictatorship. From there, the Fort of San Martín, the central fort of Santoña, comes into view. Built in the early 17th century, this fort was part of the town's defense system and now serves as a cultural center.

The Beaches and More

Below the Fort of San Martín lies the urban beach of Santoña, a narrow stretch of sand bathed by the calm waters of the bay. Just a few meters away, visitors can explore the remains of the Galvanes Battery, built in the mid-19th century. At the end of the promenade, a staircase leads to the Monument to the Virgin of the Port, a monumental stone sculpture of the town's patroness overlooking the entrance to the bay.

On the other side of Mount Busero, near Berria Beach, visitors can find the remains of the Cueva Battery and the Águila Battery, offering panoramic views of the wildest beach in Santoña, with two kilometers of sandy shoreline caressed by the Cantabrian Sea.

The Historical Center

In the heart of the historical center, visitors can explore the Church of Santa María del Puerto, a beautiful temple dating back to the 13th century. This church houses a 13th-century baptismal font, magnificent 18th-century altarpieces, and a Gothic sculpture of the Virgin of the Port.

Other notable buildings in the town include the neoclassical Palacio de Castañeda, the neoclassical Palacio de Manzanedo, the Baroque Palace of the Marquesses of Chiloé, the Teatro Casino Liceo, and the market.

Plan Your Visit to Santonia

If you are planning a visit to Santonia, be sure to check out Keber en el Mundo's website for more information on accommodations, guided tours, and activities at the best prices. Don't forget to subscribe to their channel and activate the notification bell to receive updates on their latest videos.

Experience the beauty and history of Santonia, a charming coastal town that offers a perfect blend of natural landscapes and cultural heritage. Take in the stunning views, savor the delicious local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the captivating history of this unforgettable destination.

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