In the parish of A Ameixenda (Cee), the Caneliñas Whaling Station stands as the last operational whale processing plant in Europe and one of the best preserved today. With over 60 years of history, it offers a fascinating glimpse into Galicia’s maritime industry.
The first stage of operation ran from 1924 to 1927 under the Spanish Whaling Company, funded with Norwegian capital. A second, more industrialized phase began in 1951, led by IBSA, which expanded the facilities and reoriented production for export to Japan. The plant closed in 1985, after processing its last whale — a 17.7-meter fin whale.
Visitors can still explore remnants like the original slipways, the dismemberment warehouses, the pier, artisan wells and old canals. Today, the Caneliñas whaling site is one of Galicia’s best spots for whale and dolphin watching, as well as a peaceful destination where nature, sea, and history converge.
