According to the legend, Pontevedra was founded by greek hero Teucro who, later Troya war was finished and he being detested by his father, came to Galicia and called Helenesto this place. Historical researchs have demonstrated that this theory was invented in Renaissance to improve the consideration of the village.

Pontevedra was actually founded bay romans, who built a bridge where nowadays we see the Burgo bridge. The name of the city comes since the Middle Ages, when people called it Pontus Veteris (old bridge), referring to the old roman bridge.

Pontevedra enjoyed since XIIIth century until XVIth century an important economic strength, because of its port. Later, it suffered a serious crisis when the sea level went down and part of the economic activity went to neighbour village of Marin.

Recovery came at the beginning of XXth century, when economic, political and cultural activities improved.

Pontevedra has a marvellous Monumental Zone. Nowadays, the city can be crossed comfortably by foot, because the historical zone has been thought for pedestrians. The beginning point for ever visit to Pontevedra must be Ferraría Square, where there are three agreeable squares, the San Francisco Convent ans several beatiful porches.

Close to that square is Virxe da Peregrina chapel, a XVIIIth century building with both baroque and neoclassic styles mixed and portuguese influence.

Monumental Zone is plenty of agreeable little squares, like Leña, Verdura or Cinco Rúas (Five Streets) ones. It is also recommended the Basilica de Santa Maria, which has a magnific plateresco style front.

In modern part of the town, tourist can have a walk through Alameda park and see the Council and Deputation interesting buildings. In the surroundings, Pontevedra has several manor houses, like Lourizan, Pedreira and Gandaron ones.

At the present, there are five bridges that cross the Lerez river. The banks of the river have long and well mantained walking areas.

In addition, if anyone wish a more cultural tourism, the Pontevedra Museum offers five XVIIIth century buildings plenty of celt and preroman tools, besides other modern expositions of galician culture and art. We can also visit the San Domingos Convent Ruins, close to Alameda, where we can see the ruins of a XIVth century beautiful gothic temple.

Concerning to festivals, in september they celebrate the Feira Franca, a Middle Ages recreation. The Carnival of Pontevedra is well-known and considered. In it, people bury the popular Parrot Ravachol.

In august, Peregrina feasts revolutionazes Pontevedra during several days. The council has also the Broth Festival in Mourente (july)and the San Bieito de Lerez pilgrimage (september).