Apr 04 -
All Documents
Pontevedra
Redondela
to
Pontevedra
Apr 20,
Stage 10 -
21 km
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Tonight's Accommodation
Interesting Facts
Practical Insights:Easter. This pleasant 20km stage has moderate terrain with some brief climbs. The historic Ponte Sampaio bridge has narrow sections; cross carefully. Pontevedra offers numerous accommodation options from municipal albergues to hotels. The city's pedestrianized old town is perfect for relaxed exploration. Pontevedra's market showcases regional produce; try the famous Galician shellfish and cheeses. Visit the Pilgrim Museum to understand the historical context of your journey.
Highlights:Follow the Ría de Vigo estuary along coastal paths and through small villages with hórreos (traditional stone granaries). Cross medieval bridges including the iconic Ponte Sampaio where Napoleonic forces were defeated. Approach Pontevedra through woodlands before entering this elegant historic city with its exceptionally preserved medieval center and numerous plazas filled with cafés and Galician culture.
Natural Beauty:The route follows the shoreline of Ría de Vigo, with rich marshlands supporting diverse birdlife. Woodland sections feature ancient oak and chestnut trees, traditional to Galicia before eucalyptus introduction. The Lérez River meeting the ría creates a special ecosystem visible as you approach Pontevedra. The city itself features beautiful gardens, particularly the Alameda park with specimen trees and the tranquil island garden in the Lérez River.
Historical Context:Pontevedra was historically a major city on the Portuguese Way with a significant medieval pilgrim hospital. The city received a royal charter in 1169 specifically to protect pilgrims. Ponte Sampaio bridge was the site of a crucial 1809 battle where Galician forces defeated Napoleon's army. Pontevedra's exceptional preservation results from early pedestrianization policies restoring its medieval character. The iconic scallop shell pilgrim symbol adorns many historic buildings.
Spiritual or Reflective Spots:The 13th-century Shrine of the Pilgrim Virgin (Santuario da Virxe Peregrina) features a unique scallop shell-shaped floor plan designed specifically for pilgrims. Pontevedra's numerous historic churches include San Francisco with its tranquil cloister. The Pilgrim Museum in the former Hospital de San Juan de Dios explains medieval spiritual practices. The Plaza de la Estrella contains a fountain where pilgrims traditionally purified themselves before entering the city.
Highlights
Follow the Ría de Vigo estuary along coastal paths and through small villages with hórreos (traditional stone granaries). Cross medieval bridges including the iconic Ponte Sampaio where Napoleonic forces were defeated. Approach Pontevedra through woodlands before entering this elegant historic city with its exceptionally preserved medieval center and numerous plazas filled with cafés and Galician culture.
Practical Insights
Easter. This pleasant 20km stage has moderate terrain with some brief climbs. The historic Ponte Sampaio bridge has narrow sections; cross carefully. Pontevedra offers numerous accommodation options from municipal albergues to hotels. The city’s pedestrianized old town is perfect for relaxed exploration. Pontevedra’s market showcases regional produce; try the famous Galician shellfish and cheeses. Visit the Pilgrim Museum to understand the historical context of your journey.
Historical Context
Pontevedra was historically a major city on the Portuguese Way with a significant medieval pilgrim hospital. The city received a royal charter in 1169 specifically to protect pilgrims. Ponte Sampaio bridge was the site of a crucial 1809 battle where Galician forces defeated Napoleon’s army. Pontevedra’s exceptional preservation results from early pedestrianization policies restoring its medieval character. The iconic scallop shell pilgrim symbol adorns many historic buildings.
Natural Beauty
The route follows the shoreline of Ría de Vigo, with rich marshlands supporting diverse birdlife. Woodland sections feature ancient oak and chestnut trees, traditional to Galicia before eucalyptus introduction. The Lérez River meeting the ría creates a special ecosystem visible as you approach Pontevedra. The city itself features beautiful gardens, particularly the Alameda park with specimen trees and the tranquil island garden in the Lérez River.
Spiritual or Reflective Spots
The 13th-century Shrine of the Pilgrim Virgin (Santuario da Virxe Peregrina) features a unique scallop shell-shaped floor plan designed specifically for pilgrims. Pontevedra’s numerous historic churches include San Francisco with its tranquil cloister. The Pilgrim Museum in the former Hospital de San Juan de Dios explains medieval spiritual practices. The Plaza de la Estrella contains a fountain where pilgrims traditionally purified themselves before entering the city.