Centred around a beautifully preserved old town, Pontevedra is a historic city in north-west Spain. It is renowned for its urban planning and has received numerous awards for its pedestrianisation, accessibility and quality of living. Pontevedra is an important stopping point on the Portuguese Way and is dotted with museums dedicated to culture, history and art.
Things to do in Pontevedra
One of Pontevedra’s most impressive architectural landmarks is the scallop-shaped Church of the Pilgrim Virgin, which houses a revered image of the Portuguese Way’s patron saint. Admire the church’s Baroque facade with its Corinthian columns and the fountain at its entrance before stepping inside to see the Neoclassical altarpiece in the style of Melchor de Prado.
You can take a step back in time at the Pontevedra Museum, which comprises six buildings filled with archaeological and ethnographic artefacts, paintings, sculptures and decorative arts. Marvel at the Byzantine baptismal cup that forms part of the Fernández de la Mora y Mon silverware collection and see the cabin of the ironclad “Numancia” in the Pazo García Flórez. The Pontevedra Museum also encompasses the ruins of the 14th-century St. Dominic's Convent.
A short drive from Pontavedra is the Monasterio de Santa María de Armentera, a 12th-century Cistercian monastery that is nestled beneath Mount Castrove. Its magnificent Romanesque church features a Latin cross plan and boasts a beautiful rose window. Wander through the peaceful cloister and gardens or stretch your legs on one of the walking trails that wind through the surrounding sequoia forest.
Getting around Pontevedra
Vigo Airport is around 30 minutes’ drive from Pontevedra and has flights to destinations across Spain. Regular trains connect to the Pontevedra railway station and buses travel throughout the city. The centre of Pontevedra can easily be explored on foot.