Caldas de Reis, a thermal town in Galicia

Caldas de Reis is characterized because of its thermal waters since Roman times. The fuente de las Burgas is a construction that belongs to the typology of “fuentes de cano”. It is constituted by two pipes shaped like a lion’s head from which a delicious water comes out. It is located in an enclosure whose ornamental elements give it a Neoclassical aspect, very close to it, there is the laundry room, which is supplied by the same hot water spring.

Since the 1st century, in the center of Caldas de Reis is the Bermaña Bridge that crosses the river of the same name. Through it passes the Portuguese Camino. In terms of the natural heritage of Caldas de Reis we highlight some places. In the urban center and on the banks of the river Umia is the Botanical Garden and “Carballeira”. Both are declared Assets of Cultural Interest. Apart from their natural content, they have the value of serving as a meeting space for various events throughout the year, such as the patron saint’s festivities and, above all, the Cultura Quente and Kaldarte music festival.

Caldas de Reis has four churches with Romanic origin. All of them are worth visiting. Of the Church of Santa María de Bemil the rosette of the western facade, a section of the south wall and the semicircular apse of great purity are preserved. The bell tower is Baroque.

The Church of Santa María underwent important reforms. It is very interesting the western door, under a modern portico, which supports a Baroque bell tower. The “Agnus dei” of the tympanum also stands out. The Church of Santo André de Cesar was built in the 12th century and reformed in the 18th century with Baroque style. From the old Romanesque church is the apse (one of the best in the whole region).

And finally, the Church of San Estevo de Saiar also of Romanesque origin and very transformed. Especially in the header, which was completely replaced. The body of the nave and the two covers are preserved.