Turismo de Galicia

Pontevedra travels back to the 15th century on the first weekend of September in this event commemorating the privilege granted by King Enrique IV in 1467. The monarch authorised a month-long, tax-free market spanning a fortnight before and after 24th August, the day of St. Bartholomew.

The granting of the Feira Franca market coincided with a period of economic strength for the city, which would last to the late 16th century. Fishing and trade were the two cornerstones of economic development at that time in Pontevedra, which was the city with the highest population in that era.

The festivities were held for the first time in 2000 with two main goals: firstly, revive the memory of one of city’s spells of greatest economic strength and prosperity, and, secondly, promote public engagement in a project seeking to revitalise the historic old town, a wonderful setting to recreate Pontevedra’s golden age.

Over the years, the Feira Franca has grown undeniably as every year it attracts more and more visitors wanting to return to the past in period costume and take in, alongside the locals, the streets and shows taking place in them.

Over the day and a half of festivities, the streets of the city are spectacularly made up to host countless meals and dinners, falconry shows, and artisan stalls.