Ponte Vella Archaeological Site

Address: Ponte Vella (Old Bridge), Ourense, Galicia, Spain

Ponte Vella is the historic “old bridge” that crosses the Río Miño in the city of Ourense, Galicia, Spain; it stands on older foundations and is one of the city’s principal historic landmarks.

The bridge presents a compact stone crossing linking both banks of the river and is a prominent feature of the riverside urban area. Pedestrians use it for short crossings and for views along the river to the city.

The crossing occupies a site that has been used since antiquity and the current visible masonry results from multiple medieval and later reconstructions built on earlier foundations.

The bridge sits in the centre of Ourense, spanning the Miño at the city’s riverside quarter and providing direct pedestrian access to streets and promenades on both sides.

• Location tip: Sits in the historic centre of Ourense close to the riverside promenades and local thermal springs, making it easy to combine with a city stroll.

Ponte Vella sits in the historic centre of Ourense and is easily reached on foot from the city’s train station and main squares.

• For best photographs approach Ponte Vella (Puente Viejo) around sunset when the river light softens the stone.
• Combine the bridge visit with a walk through the old town and riverside promenades of Ourense.