4 March 1125 Queen Teresa, mother of Afonso Henriques granted a Municipal Charter to Ponte de Lima, refering to it as “Terra de Ponte” (Land of Bridge). The bridge that originated the name of the locality was once the only safe crossing point of the River Lima. Even today this is the main ex-libris of the municipality, and it is still a place of passage for the thousands of pilgrims who travel the
Portuguese Way to Santiago de Compostela. Apart from its historical roots, Ponte de Lima is distinguished by breathtaking landscapes, the preservation of heritage and environment, traditions and rurality, and the sumptuous manor houses and rich and succulent cuisine. True sanctuary and symbol of respect for nature, the Protected Landscape Area of Lagoas de Bertiandos e S. Pedro de Arcos is unique for the rarity of its habitats and diversity of structures that support the direct contact with the surrounding countryside and nature. Trails and Greenways complement the offer of Nature Tourism as well as the International Garden Festival which attracts thousands of visitors to this thematic exhibition of ephemeral gardens. The area along the river Lima, opposite the village is host to several traditions of “limianos”: the Feira Quinzenal (Fortnightly Market) on Mondays, Vaca das Cordas (Cow of the Ropes) which offers an exciting spectacle of raids to the delight of all and Feiras Novas, held since 1826, exalting the popular traditions including folklore, processions, livestock contests, horse races, fireworks, bigheads, drums and concertinas. The typical dish, Arroz de Sarrabulho accompanied by the excellence of Vinho Verde Loureiro and/or Vinhão becomes the perfect union of flavors and aromas. The municipality of Ponte de Lima is proud to bring together a diverse tourism offer that is able to satisfy the requirements of those seeking a different way to spend holidays: enjoyment of different experiences, contact with nature, experiencing the culture and traditional values. The captivating simplicity of the people, the genuineness and the unparalleled beauty of the Oldest Town in Portugal will give you the best memories and the desire to return.
