Ourense
Ourense (Galician official name Ourense; Spanish traditional name Orense) is a town in northwestern Spain, the capital of the province of Ourense in Galicia. Its population of 109,001 (2002) constitutes 30% of the population of the province.
Location and Climate
The ancient city of Auria is located on both banks of the Minho River in the south-central part of Galicia, at an elevation of 128 mts. above sea level. The city has a microclimate that brings abundant rainfall and allows for verdant vegetation on the nearby hills. Winters are mild with lows rarely falling below zero Celsius. Because of the location in the river valley summers can be quite hot, often equalling temperatures of Andalucia. Many local families have apartments on the coast (Vigo is only an hour away by car)where they can escape the heat of July and August.
The river divides a rather industrial western suburb which contains the railroad station from the main town. Three highway and one railroad bridge cross the river in addition to the famous Roman Bridge, which is now closed to vehicle traffic.
History
The origin of the town can be traced to the Romans and the presence of hot springs called the Burgas. These can still be seen today. There was also the need to fortify the place to protect one of the easiest ways to cross the Miño River. After the Romans, Ourense was part of the Suebi (Suevi) kingdom during most of the 5th, 6th, and 7th centuries and was destroyed by the Moors in 716. It was later rebuilt by São Ciprião das Viñas are many light industries including several important clothing factories. One of the most important fashion designers of Spain, Adolpho Domingues, is from Ourense.
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