Centro Arqueológico De Salinae

Centro Arqueológico de Salinae: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Insights in Vigo, Spain

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Beneath the lively streets of Vigo lies a unique treasure: the Centro Arqueológico de Salinae, an underground museum preserving the only Roman marine solar evaporation saltworks conserved in the entire Roman Empire. This archaeological site not only showcases ancient engineering and industrial prowess but also forms a cornerstone for understanding the economic and cultural importance of salt in Roman Gallaecia. Whether you are fascinated by Roman history, industrial archaeology, or Vigo’s rich heritage, Salinae offers a compelling and educational experience for all visitors (Faro de Vigo, Metropolitano, Turismo de Vigo).

Historical Background and Archaeological Significance
Visiting Hours and Ticket Information
Museum Layout and Visitor Experience
Educational Activities and Guided Tours
Accessibility, Facilities, and Practical Tips
Nearby Historical Sites in Vigo
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Visitor Feedback and Contact Information
Plan Your Visit
References

Historical Background and Archaeological Significance

The Centro Arqueológico de Salinae preserves remains of a Roman saltworks dated to the 1st–3rd centuries CE, discovered during urban development in 1998 and later excavated and protected. Salt was indispensable in the Roman world—vital for preserving food, culinary uses, religious rituals, and economic exchange. The site’s extensive, stone-lined evaporation tanks and carefully designed water channels are a testimony to the technical sophistication and industrial scale of salt production in ancient Vigo. The facility likely played a key role in supporting the region’s fishing and trade industries, with salt distributed across the empire (Museo do Mar de Galicia, Wikipedia).

Visiting Hours and Ticket Information

Tuesday to Friday: 10:00 – 14:00
Saturdays: 11:00 – 14:00 and 17:00 – 20:00
Sundays and Public Holidays: 11:00 – 14:00
Closed on Mondays

Admission: Free for all visitors. No advance ticket purchase is necessary for general entry (Paxinas Galegas, La Voz de Galicia).

Guided Tours: Offered on Saturdays and Sundays at 11:15 and 12:30. Tours last approximately 45 minutes, are free of charge, but require advance reservation by phone (+34 986 247 750) due to limited group sizes (Metropolitano).

Museum Layout and Visitor Experience

Thematic Exhibition

The museum is located at Rúa Rosalía de Castro 21-23, about seven meters below street level, and is accessed by stairs or ramps. The exhibition is divided into eight thematic areas, guiding visitors through the discovery, historical context, technological processes, and cultural uses of salt in Roman society (Viajar Galicia):

Discovery and Excavation: Chronicles the accidental uncovering of the site and archaeological efforts.
Historical Context: Explains the Roman presence in Galicia.
The World of Salt: Details salt’s properties and extraction techniques.
Salt Industry in Vigo: Traces salt production from Roman times to the present.
Archaeological Finds: Displays Roman artifacts; some originals are housed at the Museo do Mar de Galicia.
Site Reconstruction: Models and murals visualize the ancient saltworks.
Roman Uses of Salt: Focuses on culinary, preservative, and economic uses.
Post-Roman Evolution: Follows the site’s transformation after the Roman era.

Archaeological Highlights

Evaporation Tanks: Original Roman basins for seawater evaporation.
Water Channels and Decanting Zones: Ingenious engineering maximizing salt yield.
Crystallization Areas: Where salt was harvested.
Lighting and Interpretive Signage: Modern installations enhance the visitor experience and highlight ancient structures.

Educational Activities and Guided Tours

Salinae is committed to making history engaging for all ages through:

Workshops: Hands-on activities for families and school groups, including ancient Roman cooking and simulated archaeological digs (El Español).
Multimedia Presentations: Interactive displays and digital reconstructions bring Roman Vigo to life.
Guided Tours: Expert guides provide deep dives into the technology, daily life, and economic impact of the saltworks.

Accessibility, Facilities, and Practical Tips

Accessibility

The site is fully accessible to visitors with reduced mobility, with ramps and adapted pathways (Turismo de Vigo).
Some archaeological areas may require minor assistance due to their historic nature.

Facilities

Restrooms: Available on-site.
Gift Shop: Offers books, educational materials, and themed souvenirs.
Information Desk: Multilingual staff assist with visitor needs and city recommendations.

Visitor Tips

Dress for Conditions: The underground environment can be cool and humid; bring a light jacket.
Book in Advance: Reserve guided tours or group visits, especially on weekends and holidays.
Combine Visits: Salinae’s central location makes it easy to visit other sites like Castro Fortress and the Museum of the Sea.
Photography: Non-flash photography is generally allowed; confirm with staff.

Nearby Historical Sites in Vigo

To further enrich your cultural exploration, consider visiting these nearby attractions:

O Castro Settlement: Pre-Roman hillfort with panoramic views.
Museum of the Sea: Maritime history and archaeology.
Roman Villa at Toralla: Another important Roman-era site.
Casco Vello and Monument to Jules Verne: For a taste of Vigo’s broader heritage.

(Turismo de Vigo, Viajar Galicia)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is admission to Salinae free?
A: Yes, entry is free for everyone.

Q: When are guided tours available?
A: Saturdays and Sundays at 11:15 and 12:30, by prior reservation.

Q: Is the site accessible to people with disabilities?
A: Yes, the museum is fully adapted for visitors with reduced mobility.

Q: How do I get there?
A: Centrally located at Rúa Rosalía de Castro 21-23, accessible by foot, public transport, or car.

Q: Are group/school visits possible?
A: Yes. Contact the center in advance to arrange.

Visitor Feedback and Contact Information

Visitors consistently praise Salinae for its unique preservation, clear educational materials, and central location—making it an ideal stop for both spontaneous visits and planned cultural itineraries (Paxinas Galegas).

Contact Information:

Address: Rúa Rosalía de Castro 21-23, 36201 Vigo, Pontevedra, Spain
Phone: +34 986 247 750
Official Website: Museo do Mar de Galicia – Salinae
Social Media: Facebook, Instagram

Plan Your Visit

Don’t miss the chance to discover one of Vigo’s most remarkable archaeological treasures. Visit the official website or contact the center for the latest updates on hours and events. For guided tours, book ahead by phone. Enhance your experience by combining your visit with other historical sites in Vigo, and consider downloading the Audiala app for virtual guides and insider tips.

References

Experience the ingenuity of Roman engineering and the enduring legacy of salt production in Vigo. Plan your visit to the Centro Arqueológico de Salinae and step back in time—right beneath the modern city.