Looking for something a little out of the ordinary to pep up your Spanish summer? The Fiesta de Santa Marta de Ribarteme in As Neves is about as left-field as festivals get. Every 29th July, this quiet Galician town comes alive with a spectacle that’s equal parts gratitude, community, and flat-out eyebrow-raising tradition.
What happens at Santa Marta de Ribarteme?
Known as Spain's near-death experiences festival, local folk—and quite a few curious visitors—gather to watch neighbours hopping into open coffins and being carried through the streets. The whole thing has been going on since at least 1700, and it all revolves around Saint Martha, the patron saint of resurrection. In addition to the religious events, the town also puts on evening concerts from the 27th to the 30th of July.
The famous procession
After mass at midday, the heart of the festival gets underway—and it really is a sight you won’t soon forget. The religious figure of Santa Marta leads the way, carried by several locals. Folks who’ve had a brush with death in the past year (anything from a nasty illness to a lucky escape on the road) climb into open coffins and are carried through the streets. Some take their promise to Santa Marta a step further—completing the pilgrimage to the church on their knees or barefoot, as a show of gratitude and humility.
You might hear the word cadaleitos—that’s the Galician name for the little coffins themselves, carried proudly (and sometimes nervously) by friends and relatives. The youngest, not to be left out, sometimes join in by carrying empty mini-cadaleitos alongside their parents. And keep your ears open for the "singing pilgrims". These are groups who lead the hymns and chants during the procession, setting the tone for the day.
What do Galicians eat at the festival?
Once the formalities wrap up, the real partying begins. The village square and taverns come alive with the smell of empanada, gooey local cheeses, and, if you’re brave, lamprea stew. Add in a few bottles of the region’s famously good wine and some impromptu folk music, and you’re all set.
Practical bits: getting there, staying over
Reaching As Neves isn’t tricky if you’ve got a car—just swing down from Vigo or Pontevedra. Public transport thins out a bit in rural Galicia, so wheels do make life easier, especially during festival week when things get fairly lively. Book somewhere handy (and early), since rooms in the town vanish fast in July—look at nearby villages or even Vigo if you want some city buzz.
What does As Neves have to offer?
As Neves is tucked away in southern Galicia in the province of Pontevedra, only a stone’s throw from Portugal. Picture rolling green hills, stately old oaks and chestnuts, and the Miño River gliding lazily along. The landscape up here is classic “Green Spain”—misty, lush, and made for a ramble. Dig a little deeper and you’ll stumble across ancient ruins and idyllic wild swimming spots.
Living in Galicia
Pontevedra and Galicia as a whole are quietly becoming a favourite for foreigners looking for a bit more breathing space, dramatic coastlines and laidback days. With its mild climate, wild beaches, and good food (seafood here is legendary), it’s easy to see the appeal. English speakers and other expats are slowly making their mark, especially in towns and rural spots where property is still affordable and life rolls by at a gentler pace.
Tennis, sunshine, and style: Davis Cup 2025 arrives in Marbella
Spain will host Denmark in an electrifying Davis Cup Qualifier at Marbella’s prestigious Puente Romano Tennis Club from 13–14 September 2025. This decisive tie will determine which nation earns a coveted place in the Final 8 in Bologna this November — and it’s set to be one of the highlights of Marbella’s late-summer social calendar.
Madrid, the safest city in the world according to Trump
The President of the United States, Donald Trump, has described Madrid as the safest city in the world. He made the statement during a press briefing in which he announced that the federal government would take control of the Washington DC police, with the aim of reducing crime rates.
Discover the most beautiful white villages in Andalusia and Southern Spain
Southern Spain is famous for its sunshine, beaches, rich culture and historic towns – but nothing quite compares to its pueblos blancos, or white villages. These charming whitewashed towns are found throughout Andalusia, Murcia, and Extremadura, offering stunning views, fascinating architecture, and a peaceful escape from the modern world.
Living in Coripe: houses from €20K in rural Seville
Tucked away in the province of Seville, Coripe is the kind of place that barely registers on the usual tourist map. This is precisely why its property market is so remarkable, with traditional village houses starting from around €20,000. It’s an ideal spot for anyone seeking an authentic, rural Andalusian life without the hefty price tag.
Living in Sant Pere de Ribes: coast, city and countryside
For anyone considering living in Sant Pere de Ribes, this town in the Garraf region offers a wonderfully peaceful lifestyle while still keeping you well-connected to Barcelona. Its fantastic spot means you’re never far from the coast and can easily explore the many natural areas nearby.
Typical Balearic Islands dishes: this is the archipelago's cuisine
Visitors to the Balearic Islands don't only love their idyllic landscapes and crystal-clear beaches but also their rich, time-honoured cuisine that reflects centuries of history, cultural fusion and a deep respect for local ingredients.
Living in Madrid: calling the capital home
As Spain's capital, Madrid is a powerhouse of art, business, and culture. It’s a city with a personality very different to the coastal spots many people first think of in Spain. Proudly landlocked, the city has scorching summers and crisp winters. It's a city that comes alive after dark, with a social scene that revolves around late dinners and finding the perfect terrace for a caña.