Ourense is known for its waters: those of the Miño River, which crosses the city, and the thermal waters. The most famous springs are those of Burgas, where more than two thousand years ago the Roman legions settled, founding the ancient city. The Romans were also the builders of the Ponte Vella, a strategic crossing over the Miño that still stands today and is the symbol of the city. The Burgas fountains, along with the Plaza Mayor and the Cathedral of San Martiño, are the main monuments of Ourense. All are located in its Historic Center, the old medieval city of narrow streets and small squares with beautiful fountains. The Plaza Mayor is unique because it is sloped. The old town is full of places to try snacks and tapas, especially octopus, which is eaten here every Sunday. The banks of the Miño River are very popular because they host most of Ourense’s thermal spaces, stone-built pools of mineral-medicinal water where you can enjoy a hot bath in contact with nature at any time of the year. The area is known as the Miño Thermal Route, and beyond the waters, the place stands out for being a large green area dominated by the riverside forest, home to birds, amphibians, and small mammals.