Pontevedra City
The many prehistoric cave
engravings in the countryside surrounding the town of Pontevedra
are proof of its ancient origins; a primitive settlement situated
at the foot of the river of the same name. But it was not until
the twelfth century that documentary evidence of the town’s
participation in the history of Galicia and Spain began to appear
in some quantity. The Franciscan and Dominican monasteries and
the Claretian convent, all part of Pontevedra’s artistic
heritage, are both a reflection of this position and the existence
of a trading bourgeoisie.
In the sixteenth century, Pontevedra led a troubled existence
due, in the main, to attacks from sea. In spite of this, the magnificent
church of Santa María la Mayor was erected along with that
of the Virgen Peregrina, constructed in the eighteenth century.
Both are considered to be the town’s most emblematic buildings.
The Museo de Pontevedra has a special place
in the cultural life of the town, as it houses various art and
archaeological collections, mainly from Galicia but covering all
periods of history, as well as a superb library and archive. It
is located in the old part of town, an exceptional and wonderfully
charming area.
Pontevedra guide