Pontevedra is the capital of Pontevedra province, although Vigo is larger. Its name comes from Ponte Veteri ("old bridge"), the Roman crossing of the Rio Lérez that preceded today's Ponte do Burgo.
During the 15th and 16th centuries, Pontevedra was the leading port of the Rías Baixas, supported by fishing, fish-salting and maritime trade. Much of this wealth was concentrated in A Moureira, the seafaring quarter whose Gremio de Mareantes (Seafarers' Guild) helped finance the Basílica de Santa María a Maior.
Qué ver en Pontevedra
Capela da Virxe Peregrina
Begun in 1778, this chapel is dedicated to the Virxe Peregrina, shown dressed as a pilgrim with staff and scallop shells. Its floor plan combines the shape of a scallop shell with a cross, and the holy-water font is a giant natural shell brought from the Pacific by Pontevedra-born naval officer Casto Méndez Núñez.
Basílica de Santa María a Maior
Pontevedra's powerful Gremio de Mareantes (Seafarers' Guild) helped finance this 16th-century church from wealth generated by fishing and maritime trade. Its richly carved facade mixes Renaissance and Portuguese Manueline influences, and sailors traditionally prayed before the Cristo da Boa Viaxe (Christ of the Good Voyage) before leaving port.
Dónde alojarse en Pontevedra
Hostel Charino
Dpaso Urban Hostel
Nacama Hostel
Bulezen Urban Hostel
Acolá Hostel
Slow City Hostel
Albergue de peregrinos
Albergue GBC Pontevedra
Albergue Aloxa
Turoqua Hostel
