Bridge · Melide, Galicia
Ponte de Furelos
Medieval stone bridge over the Furelos River, about 2 km from Melide, with four arches, where the Caminho Francês enters the village of Furelos.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Ponte de Furelos
The bridge of Furelos crosses the river of the same name in the village of Furelos, about 2 km from Melide, on the Caminho Francês. It is a medieval stone bridge with four arches, well preserved, and one of the best-known images of the Caminho between Palas de Rei and Melide.
The deck is narrow and has a slight humpback profile, typical of medieval bridges, to clear the river and floods. The bridge is used by pedestrians only, and pilgrims cross it in single file, between the village's stone houses.
On the far side is the church of San Xoán de Furelos, which belonged to the Ordem de São João de Jerusalém, the Hospitallers, who cared for pilgrims along the Caminho. The village preserves traditional stone houses with balconies and vegetable gardens.
For someone in Melide, it is a short walk along the Caminho itself, in the opposite direction to the pilgrims.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 20 to 30 minutes on site, plus the walk.
Best time
Early in the morning, with low light over the river and pilgrims passing.
How to get there
It is in the village of Furelos, about 2 km from Melide center, on foot along the Caminho Francês, about a 30-minute walk.
Tip
Photograph the bridge from the riverbank on the village side: the arches fit fully in the frame.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Ponte de Furelos
Where is the bridge of Furelos?
In the village of Furelos, about 2 km from Melide, on the Caminho Francês.
Is the bridge of Furelos medieval?
Yes, it is a medieval stone bridge with four arches, now for pedestrians only.
Can you walk from Melide to the bridge?
Yes, via the Caminho Francês, in about 30 minutes.
