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Wise Pilgrim APPPonte de Lima claims to be the oldest town in Portugal — its royal charter dates to 1125, making it older than the nation itself. The town takes its name from the medieval bridge over the Rio Lima, whose 30 arches span the wide, slow river. The oldest seven arches are Roman, from the 1st century; the rest are medieval, completed in 1370. Your feet won't be able to tell the difference.
The Largo de Camoes is the main square near the head of the bridge — a natural gathering point with cafes and shade. The Igreja Matriz and the defensive towers — the Torre de Sao Paulo and the Torre Cadeia — are all worth seeing. Several churches around town pay tribute in some form to the pilgrimage to Santiago.
Cross the bridge to reach the Parque do Arnado, a beautiful riverside park with gardens along the Lima. The albergue and a toy museum are on the far side.
Ponte de Lima sits at the heart of vinho verde country. The wine is young, slightly fizzy, and best drunk cold — it doesn't travel well, so drink it here. The market alternates Mondays: a larger market on the first and third Mondays, a smaller one on the second and fourth.
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Ponte de Lima has played host to a very large festival known as ‘As Feiras Novas’ every second weekend in September since 1826. It is a massive party, and if you have not made a reservation long in advance, you may find yourself without a home for the night.
As Ferias Novas, the town festival, is celebrated without pause on the second weekend in September, a three-day feast.
The Romans feared the Rio Lima, believing it to be the Lethe — the river of forgetfulness from Greek mythology. The story goes that the legions under Decimus Junius Brutus refused to cross, fearing they'd lose their memories. Brutus crossed alone, then called each soldier by name from the far bank, proving the water was harmless. The town has celebrated this legend ever since.
As Feiras Novas, the town's festival, has been running since 1826 and is held every second weekend in September. It's three days of feasting, music, and fireworks — book accommodation months in advance or expect to sleep outdoors.
Cross the bridge, passing the museum of toys and the albergue and turn right on the first street. The camino joins a small country lane, passes under the highway, and into Arcozelo.
