Talk:Picos de Europa

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[edit] Origin of name

Interesting controversy as to origin of the name (translated into English as "The Peaks of Europe"). I personally doubt that the origin stated as a fact is true, although I am sure that the the reference has been in use since time immemorial, which in itself does not make it any truer. We clearly need someone to find a reference... Ships reaching Europe from America in the early days of its discovery would surely have headed for Cádiz and Seville, in which case the Picos would almost certainly not have been visible from the sea (too much distance and other mountain ranges in between). Ships returning to Galicia (didn't Columbus return there?)or Portugal (Oporto?) may possibly have seen the Picos, in which case ... Looking forward to feedback on this one. Regards, --Technopat (talk) 13:43, 24 February 2008 (UTC)

  • Which controversy? there is no controversy just because a user thinks there is. In Spain everyone is aware of this most possibly true origin of the name. And it's been in use since the sixtheen century. Not since "time immemorial". In roman times the name was different. You know... we have a looong history here and we know about it. And the ships only returned to Galicia or Cadiz? WTF? Of course it is IMPOSSIBLE to see the peaks from Galicia. But there is a sea called "Bay of Biscay" with some big ports on it. Did you know that? do you know about Gijón, Avilés, Santander, Laredo, Cantabria... these are important ports and were important ports back in the 16th century, and for sure many ships returned from the Americas each year for centuries. And in fact, the first sight of Europe these ships had were the Picos.David (talk) 18:27, 24 February 2008 (UTC)
Greetings David, no need to get so upset about it! All I did was suggest that someone add a reference and you have since done so. It is precisely to prevent any controversy that things get referenced at Wikipedia. And of course, even though they are referenced does not necessarily mean they are true, nor does the fact that everyone "knows" something ... but that's a debate for another day. Regards, --Technopat (talk) 23:22, 24 February 2008 (UTC) PS. Read the new reference that you yourself have added, it does in fact cast doubts as to the origins of the name. Oh, and I have been visiting both Gijón and Los Picos two or three times a year, for over 25 years, and know all about the indianos, etc.
    • Cheers! I agree there is no need to be upset. I was upset because the other user marked the sentence as "total nonsense" without even knowing anything about the matter, which is a very well spread thing in Spain. Of course I understand that this is no absolute truth, only the most told theory, may be I didn't word it properly, I think it is now perfect. Thank you for your collaboration and enjoy Asturies! :) David (talk) 08:15, 25 February 2008 (UTC)