PONTEVEDRA

provincia, northwestern Spain, smallest of the four provinces of the comunidad autnoma ("autonomous community") of Galicia. It is mountainous, with an Atlantic coastline deeply indented by the picturesque ras bajas (inlets) of Arosa, Pontevedra, and Vigo. Numerous traditional fiestas held throughout the province contribute, with the scenic beauty and fine beaches, to its attractions for tourists. Cattle, timber, agricultural produce, fish, and shellfish are exported. Vigo, with one of the best harbours in Europe, is a port of call for transatlantic shipping and is also Spain's most important fishing port. Other ports are Villagarca (also a resort), Marn (with a naval academy), and Pontevedra, the provincial capital. Area 1,736 square miles (4,495 square km). Pop. (1994 est.) 900,873. city, capital of Pontevedra provincia, in the comunidad autnoma ("autonomous community") of Galicia, northwestern Spain, on the Lrez River at its entry into the Pontevedra Estuary, an Atlantic inlet. The city's port and shipyards were important in the Middle Ages, and it is probable that Christopher Columbus' ship the Santa Maria was built there. It has also been claimed as the birthplace of Columbus. Legend says that it was founded by a Greek, Teukro, who called it Helenes; but more likely it was of Roman origin, hence its old name Pons Vetus ("Old Bridge"), from the 11-arch bridge that, with modifications, still spans the Lrez. Noteworthy buildings include the Plateresque Church of Santa Mara la Mayor (1520-59), a national monument; the 14th-century Gothic convents of San Francisco (also a national monument) and Santa Clara; the Rococo La Peregrina Sanctuary (1778-92); and the ruins of the 14th-century Convent of Santo Domingo, now an archaeological museum. Industries include the manufacture of cloth, hats, leather, pottery, fertilizers, timber, and cellulose; and there is an active trade in grain, wine, and fruit. Pop. (1994 est.) 76,461.