Camino Portuguese - Part 9

Pontevedra - Exploring Old Town on a mini-Vacation

Pontevedra is an amazing city, well worth spending a few days. The area is famous for its wine, medieval old town and its natural landscape.

Ruins of San Domingos - The ruins of this old convent stand in the center of old town. It was built in the 13th century by the Dominican monks and later destroyed during the battle with the English. The old parts still standing include the front and a side wall with a portico and rose window.

Praza da Peregrina - This square is the heart of Pontevedra, but it was originally built outside the city wall. It sat next to one of the gates into the city along the Portuguese way. Pilgrims following the route to Santiago would always pass through. The centerpiece of the praza is the Church of Virxe Peregrina, the only circular (scalloped shaped) church in Spain. Once a day they host a pilgrim mass. Behind the church is the Convent of San Francisco. According to legend, the 14th century convent and church was built on the wishes of Saint Frances of Assisi for his pilgrimage on the Way of St. James.

Basilica of Santa Maria la Mayor. The church was built in the 15th century and funded by the Fishermans Guild who used it as their place of worship for centuries. and consecrated as a basilica by Pope John Paul II in 1962. Today it is the most religious monument in the city.