There are numerous stories about the past of the Cíes Islands that, to this day, have not been verified and form part of the collective imagination that has developed around these magical islands. However, it is also true that there are facts about the islands' history that have been proven and are indeed real.

For example, the archaeological remains found demonstrate that human presence in the Cíes Islands dates back to 3500 BC . Currently, some buildings can still be seen, such as the As Hortas hill fort , belonging to the Bronze Age, in which objects such as amphorae have been found, resulting from its later Romanization.

Another building we can admire while exploring the islands is the Monastery of San Estevo , a consequence of the Benedictine occupation during the 12th century. It was built by the monks themselves to suppress pagan worship. According to local lore, these monks maintained a feudal system with the island's inhabitants and were forced to abandon the Cíes Islands in the mid-18th century following an attack by the English navy, led by Sir Francis Drake.

Due to these clashes with pirates, the islands' seabed is also steeped in history and legend. Prehistoric anchors, galleons, and even a German submarine from World War II have been found . During the 19th and 20th centuries, rumors of treasure hidden in sunken ships prompted numerous expeditions from across Europe.

There are many stories surrounding our beautiful Cíes Islands that make that aura of mystery and magic even greater, if possible.