arts & culture
Museo Provincial de Pontevedra - Various Locations - Tel: 986-851-455 closed Mondays
This museum is considered to be one of the finest historical/archeological museums in Spain. It is composed of a set of buildings, among them two Baroque houses. Also included are the Gothic abses of the ruins of Santo Domingo Church and the Edificio Sarmiento, an old convent.
Illa das Esculturas Island of Scuptures - Located near where the River Lérez empties into the ocean - Tel: 986-846-611
This open air sculpture garden, the only one of its kind in Spain, showcases works by Francisco Leiro, Giovanni Anselmo, Fernando Casás, Dan Gram, and Ian Hamilton, among others. Spread over 70,000 square meters, the works of art are integrated into the landscape, which features native wild flora and fauna.
festivals
Festa da RomerÃa de San Benitiño de Lérez: The date varies from year to year, but this summertime celebrattion takes place on the outskirts of Pontevedra. St Benedict is one of the most venerated saints in Galicia, and this devotion dates back to the late Middle Age. Lérez is a old Benedictine monastery, a sanctuary located on the Lerez riverbank where a small image of the saint is venerated.
Carnival: Since 1876, Pontevedra's citizens celebrate the reign and death of King Urco. Nowdays, Carnival takes places in the streets, and features street bands and fancy dresses costumes.
Festa da Virxe do O: December 18th is the festival of this patron saint of the city.
Festa da Peregrina: On the weekend of the second Sunday in August, this festival starts with a floral tribute to the "Virxe da Peregrina" Virgin of the Pilgrim, whose shrine stands in the center of the old town. It includes fireworks weather permitting, bullfights, a marathon, a regatta, bands, and artistic displays. This also coincides with the Honey Festival held in Verdura Square.
Autumn Festival: For one weekend in mid November, Plaza da Perdura is the venue for this cultural and commercial festival, bringing people to Pontevedra's historic centre to celebrate typical autumn produce like mushrooms, nuts, and legumes. Also on hand are several magostos traditional chestnut festivals, folk games, and musical performances. Nearby restaurants offer typical autumn dishes to celebrate the festival.
Feira Franca Medieval Fair: Held the first weekend in September, it celebrates the open market held in Pontevedra starting in 1467, a privilege granted by King Enrique IV, and originally lasted a month 15 days before the Festival of San Bartolomé and 15 days afterwards. This celebration commemorates Pontevedra's era of greatest influence and prosperity, from the middle of the fifteenth century through the end of the sixteenth century. Food, recreation, and history all abound, and include music, drama, and historic costumes.
Festa do Caldo Galego: On the second Sunday in March, this local dish is celebrated with its own festival. The stew is served in clay dishes, and the celebration includes a Caldo Galego contest. In an effort to preserve traditional recipes, including varieties which use squash, onions, rice, and chestnuts, each contestant much submit the list of ingredients. Entrants are divided into two categories: meat-based and vegetarian.
Festa dos Maios Mayfest: On the first Sunday in May, this festival celebrates Galicia's Celtic roots. This includes a contest for the best "maio" (a conical construction covered with branches and flowers, around which a group of children dance in a ring and sing while beating sticks to mark time. The child with the best voice sings under the "maio."
Festa da Anguia: In late June, the Parrish of Pontesampaio hosts this celebration of various dishes prepared using eels.
Festa do Demo: In late August is the Festival of the Devil, celebrating the symbolic struggle of good against evil. The "devil" chases the children with his pitchfork, then they get to play traditional games in the town square.
Festa de Santiaguiño do Burgo: In late July, this festival ostensibly venerates the Apostle James, but includes food and sporting events in addition to its religious component. It includes the âSantiago Peregrinoâ marathon and fireworks. It is also held in conjunction with the traditional "Homage to Senior Citizens" celebration.
Festa de San Sebastián: Honoring another patrón saint of the city, this occurs on January 20th.
beaches
Placeres and Pontesampaio offer a variety of recreational opportunities.