The sleepy Galician town of Carballiño in northwest Spain has unexpectedly found itself at the centre of an international culinary dispute after proclaiming itself the 'World Capital of the Octopus'.
A Tentacled Controversy
The declaration, made during the town's famous octopus festival, has drawn sharp criticism from Moroccan officials. The North African nation claims the title more rightfully belongs to them, given their own rich octopus-fishing traditions and culinary heritage.
Festival Sparks Diplomatic Tensions
Carballiño's annual 'Festa do Polbo' (Octopus Festival) attracts thousands of visitors who consume an astonishing 50,000 portions of the town's signature dish 'pulpo á feira' - tender octopus seasoned with paprika and olive oil. The local council's decision to formalise their octopus supremacy through an official declaration appears to have touched a nerve in Morocco.
Cultural Heritage at Stake
Moroccan fishing communities, particularly along the Atlantic coast, have protested the Spanish claim. 'This isn't just about food - it's about cultural identity and centuries of maritime tradition', said one Moroccan fisheries representative who asked not to be named.
The Spanish town remains defiant, with mayor Francisco Fumega insisting: 'Our connection with octopus dates back generations. This isn't a competition, but if it were, our culinary tradition would win hands down.'
