The anchor is the iconic symbol of the maritime world . Navies worldwide include it in their uniforms and insignia. It appears on pennants, tableware, and even the traditional doormat that welcomes passengers aboard ship. This prominence is not without reason. On more than one occasion, the safety of the ship and crew will depend on the anchor .
Interestingly , of all the elements on a ship, the anchor is also the simplest ; it has evolved the least throughout the history of navigation. From the ancient world until the end of the 19th century, the Admiralty-type stock anchor was the most widely used on large vessels.
We already know two of the basic qualities of any anchor: it is simple and essential . To learn more about both, we must visit the Anchor Museum in Salinas , Castrillón. This open-air monumental complex places the anchor on the throne it deserves and bears the name of one of the most passionate figures in maritime biology and culture: Philippe Cousteau.
One of the most valuable pieces on display here is the anchor of the Spanish galleon Nuestra Señora de Atocha . This ship sank off the coast of Florida in 1628 while returning to Spain laden with treasures from the New World, specifically from Lima and Potosí.
Every anchor in Salinas has a story to tell. But what's more, the museum is nestled in a unique location where it's hard not to be swept away by maritime daydreams and weigh anchor for good. The museum is situated on the La Peñona peninsula , which rises like a watchtower at one end of the beautiful Salinas beach. Visitors can enjoy several permanent exhibitions , such as the Sails and Anchors Deck : on a 90-meter-long platform, six sails constructed of steel plate are raised. From the sails emerge the anchor chains that rest on the deck.
If we approach the viewpoint that stands at the northern end of the enclosure, we will have a beautiful panoramic view of the entire area.
La Penona Viewpoint
On the Asturian coast, in the town of Salinas—very close to Avilés—you have a magnificent… Read more
Great Mural : a large ceramic mural serves as an introduction to the museum, integrating into the plaza that serves as access.
Temple of the Oceans : in the center of the curve drawn by the deck of sails and anchors stands a compass rose, in which is inserted the container or shell into which the waters of the different oceans are poured.
Information:
Address:
The Penona. 33405, Salinas
Telephone Number: 985 53 00 50 (Castrillón Town Hall)
Text: © Ramón Molleda for asturias.com
