Puente Mayor (High bridge)

The Puente Mayor, the high bridge, one of Ourense's most emblematic structures, spans the Miño River. Centuries ago this was a strategic bastion, the gateway to Santiago de Compostela, and gave a privileged viewpoint over the river. Only a few rusticated ashlars at the base survive from the original Roman bridge, built during the reign of Emperor Augustus. It was rebuilt in the 13th century in its present form, with ogive arches and ramps, and underwent a final definitive modification in the 17th century. Very nearby is the 16th-century shrine of Los Remedios, which forms a monumental ensemble with the bridge.