Epic work of human colonisation

The survival of traditional farming systems on the steep slopes of the river canyons, based on age-old techniques.
Terraced slope of the Miño in Belesar
Terraced slope of the Miño in Belesar
© R. Vilanova
Finca Cortezada
Finca Cortezada
© R. Vilanova
Harvesting on the banks of the Sil River
Harvesting on the banks of the Sil River
© D. Estevez
Steep slope of Souto Chao
Steep slope of Souto Chao
© R. Vilanova

Socalcos, sucalcos, muras, paredes, muros, paredós, calzadas, are all names given to the crop terraces, a characteristic and singular feature of the Ribeira Sacra and, above all, a highly efficient water and soil resource.

The socalcos, the spectacular terracing of agricultural cultivation on extremely steep slopes, are an epic work of human colonisation.

This is a land that has specialised in viticulture since the Middle Ages, without forgetting the importance of other crops such as chestnuts and cherries. The unique nature, the monastic footprint and the peasant communities built this landscape, which is alive and functional to this day.


2,494 ha of socalcos

1,177 inhabitants
Ribeira Sacra
Xunta de Galicia
Ministerio de cultura
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