Foz

Etymology

The name Foz comes from the Latin word faux which graphically describes the river mouth of the Masma river; Foz is the Galician term for base level.

History

The foundation of Foz dates back to pre-Roman times, as attested by the existing forts Fazouro and Pena do Altar. Its foundation may originate in the time of the Ártabros or, according to the historian Amor Meilán, a factory may have been established by the Tartessos.

During the ninth century the town had flourished since the establishment of the episcopal headquarters in San Martiño de Mondoñedo.

At the time of Ferdinand and Isabella, Foz kept certain privileges and exemptions as a result of its commercial importance.

During the sixteenth and seventeenth Foz had a major port and one of the three most important shipyards in Galicia. Shipowners and fishermen engaged mainly in whaling. This important fishery has declined over time, but today there is still an important seafaring tradition.

The main monuments of Foz are the Basilica de San Martiño and the Manor house (Pazo) of the Counts of Fontao

Port of Foz

• [[Image:SymbolNauticFisher.png|25px]] Fishing port
• [[Image:SymbolNauticDeport.png|25px]] Sport port

International relations

Twin towns – sister cities

Foz is twinned with:

• France Trégastel, Brittany, France (2003)

References

References

1. [http://lema.rae.es/drae/?val=hoz Entrada en el DRAE]
2. "Foz revitaliza el hermanamiento con Tregastel". La Voz de Galicia.