Portomarín is a small town in the province of Lugo in northwestern Spain, located along the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route. It is situated on the banks of the Miño River, which forms a natural border between the provinces of Lugo and A Coruña.
The history of Portomarín dates back to ancient times, as archaeological remains suggest that the area was inhabited by the Celtic tribe of the Gallaeci, and later by the Romans, who established a settlement known as Ad Duo Flumina.
During the Middle Ages, Portomarín became an important center of commerce and trade due to its location on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela. The town was located on the banks of the Miño River, and a major bridge was constructed to facilitate passage across the river.
Throughout the centuries, Portomarín was the site of numerous battles and conflicts, particularly during the 14th and 15th centuries, when it was contested by various feudal lords and military factions.
In the 16th century, the town came under the control of the Order of Saint John of Jerusalem, also known as the Knights Hospitaller. The Order established a hospital in Portomarín to provide care for pilgrims and travelers passing through the area.
In the 20th century, the construction of a nearby dam threatened to flood Portomarín and submerge many of its historic buildings. As a result, the Church of San Juan and several other buildings were dismantled and rebuilt on higher ground in the 1960s.
Today, Portomarín is a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists visiting the region, and its historic architecture and cultural heritage continue to attract visitors from around the world.
