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Bridge · Ourense, Galicia
Ponte Romana de Ourense
The bridge over the river Miño, of Roman origin and rebuilt in the Middle Ages, along which the Via de la Plata runs. The central arch, 43 meters wide, was for a long time the largest in Spain.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Ponte Romana de Ourense
The Ponte Romana, also called Ponte Maior or Ponte Vella, crosses the river Miño at the north entrance of Ourense. Its origin is from the 1st century, when it was part of a branch of the Roman road known as the Via Nova. The bridge’s position, at a crossroads in the center of ancient Galécia, helped the city grow.
In the 12th century the main arch collapsed, and the bridge went through centuries of repairs and reconstructions, until the 17th-century renovation gave it its current appearance: medieval, but with Roman elements in the end arches. It preserves seven of the eleven original arches. The central arch, with a 43-meter span, was for a long time the longest span in Spain.
The bridge is pedestrian-only and is part of the route of the Via de la Plata: pilgrims leave Ourense over it, heading to Santiago. From the middle of the bridge you can see the Miño, the city and, downstream, the ponte do Milênio, a modern footbridge with a ring you can walk on about 20 meters above the river.
Paths along the banks lead from here to the riverside promenade and to the termas de Outariz.
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
20 to 40 minutes, including the walk to the ponte do Milênio.
Best time
Late afternoon, with low light over the river. At night the ponte do Milênio is lit up.
How to get there
It is north of the old town, about a 15-minute walk from the cathedral, descending toward the river. The train station is on the other side of the Miño, about a 10-minute walk away.
Tip
Cross the Roman bridge and walk along the riverbank to the ponte do Milênio to climb up to the ring, from where you can see the river and the city from above.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Ponte Romana de Ourense
Is the bridge of Ourense really Roman?
Its origin is Roman, from the 1st century, but the bridge was rebuilt several times in the Middle Ages and in the 17th century. The end arches retain Roman elements.
Does the Camino de Santiago pass over the bridge?
Yes. the Vía de la Plata leaves Ourense via the Roman bridge, heading to Santiago.
What is the Millennium Bridge?
A modern bridge over the Miño, near the Roman bridge, featuring a pedestrian ring that rises to about 20 meters above the deck.