A Starlit Stroll Along the Lérez River

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden hue over the city of Pontevedra, I found myself eagerly anticipating the start of the Bridges of Pontevedra Tour. This wasn’t just any walking tour; it was a journey through time, a dance of light and shadow across the historic bridges that span the Lérez River. As a former city planner, I have a deep appreciation for urban landscapes, and this tour promised to be a feast for the senses.

Our guide, a local historian with a passion for storytelling, led us along the riverbank, where the first stop was the Santiago Bridge. From here, we had a breathtaking view of the Puente de los Tirantes, a marvel of late 20th-century engineering. The bridge’s sleek lines and towering cables were beautifully illuminated, creating a striking contrast against the night sky. As we walked, the guide shared tales of the bridge’s construction and its significance to the city, weaving in anecdotes that brought the structure to life.

The Island of Sculptures was another highlight, a serene oasis amidst the urban environment. Here, art and nature coexisted in perfect harmony, with sculptures dotting the landscape, each telling its own story. The gentle rustle of leaves and the soft glow of the lights made this stop a truly magical experience.

Crossing the Corrientes and Beyond

Our journey continued towards the Puente das Correntes, where we paused at a viewpoint along the Uruguay Avenue promenade. The lights of the bridges reflected off the water, creating a mesmerizing display that was both calming and invigorating. Standing on the outer platforms of the Puente das Correntes, I marveled at the views of the A Barca Bridge, another testament to the city’s rich architectural heritage.

The guide’s narrative was captivating, painting a vivid picture of the bridge’s history and its role in the city’s development. As we moved on, the diversity of the Marismas da Xunqueira de Alba’s flora and fauna was highlighted, a reminder of the natural beauty that thrives alongside urban progress.

The Puente del Burgo was a particular favorite of mine. Its recent rehabilitation has transformed it into a pedestrian-friendly space, a symbol of the city’s commitment to humanizing its urban environment. Walking along its platform, I felt a connection to the past, imagining the countless pilgrims who had crossed this bridge on their way to Compostela. The guide shared legends of the Milky Way, adding a touch of mysticism to the experience.

Unveiling the Secrets of Pontevedra’s Walls

The final leg of our tour took us to the Plaza de Valentín García Escudero, an open-air museum that revealed the layers of history embedded in the city’s walls. Here, remnants of medieval fortifications stood alongside Roman milestones, each stone a testament to the city’s storied past.

As we explored the remains of the medieval walls and the original arches of the ancient bridge, I was struck by the sense of continuity that permeated the space. The guide’s insights into the city’s history were enlightening, offering a deeper understanding of Pontevedra’s evolution over the centuries.

The tour concluded with a sense of awe and appreciation for the city’s unique blend of history and modernity. As I made my way back along the river, the lights of the bridges twinkling in the distance, I felt a renewed sense of wonder for the urban landscapes that I have always cherished. Pontevedra, with its illuminated bridges and rich history, had captured my heart, and I knew it would remain a highlight of my travels.