About Ourense
The city of Ourense
The old town of Ourense invites you to wander its charming labyrinth of cobbled streets and squares, a delightful blend of baroque and 19th-century architecture housed in beautifully restored traditional buildings. Discover architectural gems like the Romanesque Cathedral, boasting the unique polychrome "Portico do Paraíso," the stately Oca-Valladares mansion, and the Town Hall. Immerse yourself in local history at the Municipal and Archaeological Museums, and explore the serene churches of Santa María Nai, San Cosme and San Damián, Santa Eufemia do Norte, and A Trindade. Beyond its historical treasures, the old town pulses with life, offering a vibrant culinary scene showcasing the best of local cuisine, a lively nightlife, and a glimpse into traditional trades and handicrafts..
Ourense street map and monumental rute.
Eating and drinking in Ourense
Prepare for a culinary journey in Ourense, where the essence of Galician cuisine comes to life. This region boasts an abundance of high-quality ingredients – from hearty bread and flavorful meat to robust potatoes and exceptional wine – that form the foundation of its delectable dishes. Surprisingly, for an inland province, Ourense has earned a well-deserved reputation for its exquisite seafood, with octopus taking center stage. Indulge your sweet tooth with the region's iconic desserts, including the renowned "marrón glacé," a chestnut-based delight. Enhance your dining experience with world-class wines from Ribeiro, Ribeira Sacra, Monterrei, and Valdeorras, each a perfect complement to Ourense's culinary treasures.
Immerse yourself in Ourense's vibrant social scene with "ir de viños," a cherished local tradition. This quintessential experience invites you to explore the charming streets and squares near the cathedral, where you'll savor exquisite wines paired with "pinchos" or "tapas." These miniature culinary masterpieces, bursting with authentic flavors, are sure to delight even the most refined palate.
Hot water springs
Ourense's legacy is deeply rooted in its thermal springs, a feature that captivated the Romans nearly 2,000 years ago. They christened the city Aquis Auriensis, acknowledging its wealth of both gold and hot springs. Today, Ourense stands as a leading European thermal destination, a proud member of the EHTTA (European Historical Thermal Towns Association), boasting a daily flow of over 4 million liters of medicinal mineral water and a hydrotherapeutic tradition spanning millennia.
Evidence of the Romans' deep interest in Ourense's hydrotherapy can be found in the Archaeological Museum and the excavations surrounding As Burgas, the city's historical core. This legacy is further highlighted by the city's abundance of high-quality hot springs, with over 100 sources known for their potent medicinal and mineral benefits, and their consistently warm waters.
For further information, you can visit Welcome to Ourense
