Street plan Map Hotels Restaurants The many prehistoric cave engravings in the countryside surrounding the town of Pontevedra are proof of its ancient origins; a primitive settlement situated at the foot of the river of the same name. But it was not until the twelfth century that documentary evidence of the town’s participation in the history of Galicia and Spain began to appear in some quantity. The Franciscan and Dominican monasteries and the Claretian convent, all part of Pontevedra’s artistic heritage, are both a reflection of this position and the existence of a trading bourgeoisie.   In the sixteenth century, Pontevedra led a troubled existence due, in the main, to attacks from sea. In spite of this, the magnificent church of Santa María la Mayor was erected along with that of the Virgen Peregrina, constructed in the eighteenth century. Both are considered to be the town’s most emblematic buildings. The Museo de Pontevedra has a special place in the cultural life of the town, as it houses various art and archaeological collections, mainly from Galicia but covering all periods of history, as well as a superb library and archive. It is located in the old part of town, an exceptional and wonderfully charming area.