Pontedeume is a charming spot along your pilgrimage on the English Way to Santiago, offering visitors a perfect blend of history, nature, and culture. In this guide, we will take you on a journey to discover its most iconic monuments, such as the Andrade Tower and the famous Eume Bridge, as well as the natural wonders that surround this picturesque town, such as the Fragas del Eume.

Additionally, you’ll discover its delicious local cuisine and its special connection to the Camino de Santiago. Ready to explore all the treasures this place has to offer?

 

Explore the Camino de Santiago: Routes and Unforgettable Experiences

The Camino de Santiago is one of the most iconic pilgrimage routes in the world, attracting thousands of walkers each year from all corners of the globe. With a variety of paths that traverse breathtaking landscapes and towns rich in history, the Camino offers a unique experience for every pilgrim.

For those looking for organised Camino de Santiago experiences, there are numerous agencies and groups offering complete packages, including accommodation, transport, and specialised guides. These experiences allow pilgrims to enjoy the journey in comfort and safety, making it easier to connect with fellow travellers and immerse themselves in the local culture.

  • One of the most cherished itineraries is the Primitive Way from Oviedo. This route, considered the oldest, offers a challenging but rewarding journey through mountains and valleys, allowing walkers to discover the purest essence of the Camino de Santiago.
  • Another fascinating route is the walk from Santiago to Finisterre, which extends the pilgrimage to the westernmost cape of Europe. This final leg symbolises the culmination of the journey, offering spectacular views of the Atlantic and a sense of achievement and spiritual renewal.
  • For those who prefer the French Way from O Cebreiro, this route is famous for its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage. O Cebreiro, with its stone houses and Romanesque chapels, offers a truly unique experience.

 

The Old Town: History in Every Corner

Pontedeume is a place steeped in history along the Camino de Santiago route from Ferrol, and its old town is one of the best examples of Galicia’s rich cultural heritage.

As you stroll through its streets, you can feel the influence of the Andrade family, who left an indelible mark on the town’s development. The monuments found here transport us to a medieval era, where the power and nobility of this family are reflected in its architecture.

 

Andrade Tower

The Andrade Tower is one of the town’s most important landmarks. This imposing 18-metre-high building was constructed in the 14th century as a defensive fortress by the powerful Andrade family, who dominated the region. The tower not only served as the residence of this feudal family but also as a strategic point of defense against potential attacks.

 

Church of Santiago

Another major attraction is the Church of Santiago, a neoclassical temple dating from the 16th century.

This church holds special significance, not only for its impressive architecture but also for its connection to the Camino de Santiago. Over the centuries, it has served as a refuge and a place of prayer for pilgrims on this famous route to Santiago de Compostela, making it a site of great spiritual and cultural importance. In fact, at the back, there is a milestone with the characteristic yellow arrow.

 

Eume Bridge

The Eume Bridge is another of the town’s key points of interest. Built to facilitate the transport of goods and pilgrims in the 19th century, it spans the river of the same name. Not only is it an impressive engineering feat with its 15 arches, but it also stands as a silent witness to the town’s commercial and religious past.

 

Plaza Real

In the heart of the town is the Plaza Real, one of the most beautiful and lively squares in Pontedeume. This space is always bustling with life, surrounded by bars and terraces that invite pilgrims to enjoy a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Today, it houses the Pontedeume Town Hall, whose stone façade, coat of arms, and bell tower dominate the landscape.

 

Lombardero Gardens

These gardens are an ideal place to relax and enjoy nature in Pontedeume. Once the former orchard of the Count of Andrade, they have been transformed into a green space perfect for families and visitors of all ages. With playgrounds for children, walking paths, and a variety of plants and flowers, the gardens bring colour and life to the surroundings.

 

Old Wall of Pontedeume

Next to the Church of Santiago, you can find remnants of the old wall of Pontedeume, which once protected the town from invasions and conflicts. What remains today is one of the original five gates of the wall, known as the Postigo Gate.