The city and province of Ourense

Ourense is one of Galicia's 4 provinces and like the other three has a self named capital. Unlike Lugo, Pontevedra and la Coruna, Ourense is land locked and has no coastline. As a result this is the least developed and most isolated of Galicia's major cities, but it is still an attractive cathedral town and welcomes an increasing number of tourists.

General information about Ourense

Ourense's early beginnings were as a Roman settlement around 2000 years ago and it has a visible history that includes a well preserved Roman Spa and bridge. Because of its relative isolation, the city has developed independantly of the other major cities in the region, but it still has a strong flavour of Galicia. What also sets it apart from the other provinces is the lack of any towns, other than the capital itself, of notable significance. Ourense is a one city province and has the weakest economy and lowest population of Galicia's 4 conurbations. That said Ourense city is large and has one of the best original old towns in Galicia with some stunning plazas and a buoyant cafe culture.

Things to see and visit in Ourense city

Tip 1. Ourenses most famous feature is the old Roman Spa that still gushes hot water from its many outlests into some small bathing vats. It is no longer in use, but has been preserved in an ornimental garden setting.

Like the Roman bridge, this ancient relic is around 2000 years old.

Tip 2. The city cathedral, now mainly used as a museum and exhibition centre, attracts many tourist and demonstrates a variety of architectural styles. It offers permanent displays connected with the city, region and Christianity.

Tip 3. Still with ancient heritage, the city has a large Roman bridge, parts of which date back almost 2000 years to the Roman occupation. The bridge spans the river Mino, the life blood of the city and is Ourense's most famous structure.

Tip 4. Galicia's towns are full of plazas, but the prazo de Maior (main square) in Ourense is one of the most beautifull. Although not large, this plaza is overlooked by some excellent examples of Galician architecture and the overall effect is visually rewarding. It also leads to an impressive church which is our tip 5 below

Tip 5. The church of Santa Maria la Madre, is possibly the most photographed building in the old town. Although relatively small, the main facade of this building is a fine example of regional design and keeps the camera shutters ticking over.

Another church, the church of Santa Eufemia, is also popular with visitors to the city.

Travelling to the city of Ourense and beyond

Getting to Ourense is more difficult than reaching any of the other cities of the region. Travelling from Santiago requires a driven journey of approximately 2 hours and a main dual carriage way will only take you part of the distance.

One of the drawbacks to visiting Ourense province is the comparative lack of other sizable towns, besides the capital, in the area. Visiting the city is a single stop journey, and the province as a whole has little more to offer.

Once in Ourense, the old district can be explored easily on foot and there are tourist information offices offering guidance on what to see.