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Irrondo de Besullo
Officially known in Asturian as Eirrondu de Bisuyu, Irrondo de Besullo, derived from the Latin areum rotundum meaning round field, is located on the right side of the valley carved by the Arganza River. Nestled within the municipality of Cangas de Narcea, this charming hamlet belongs to the parish of Besullo, boasting 22 houses, most of which are still inhabited.
Irrondo is renowned for its longstanding tradition of crafting handmade baskets from hazel (Corylus avellana) wood. For generations, several families of skilled cesteiros have perpetuated this craft. The demand for these meticulously crafted utensils historically thrived during grape harvesting in the region. However, as the area underwent modernisation over the years, the trade gradually declined, eventually disappearing with the advent of tractors and plastic containers. Three decades ago, these baskets were a common sight at the fairs of Cangas de Narcea and Allande, and nearly every household in both councils had one for their daily tasks. Today, the descendants of these cesteiros continue to craft these wooden baskets by hand, more as a hobby than a commercial venture, preserving the centuries-old traditions.
Every 29th of June, Irrondo de Besullo joyously celebrates the festivities in honour of its patron saint, Saint Peter. The day begins with an early morning solemn mass, setting the tone for a traditional vermouth session later in the day. Accompanied by the accordion, this session serves as a prelude to the grand verbena that lasts until the break of dawn.