Saint Verissimus Bridge

Category: Civil Architecture > Bridge

District: Braga > Vila Nova de Famalicão > São Veríssimo > Ponte de São Veríssimo

Location

The São Veríssimo Bridge is set in a rural landscape on the outskirts of Cavalões, within the locality of São Veríssimo, in Vila Nova de Famalicão. It stands over the Este River, marking a crossing point on an old path, which lends it a tranquil atmosphere conducive to contemplating the surrounding nature. Its position offers a serene setting, ideal for those seeking a moment of peace by the riverside.

Historical Memory

The São Veríssimo Bridge is a link to the past, with its origins conjecturally attributed to the medieval period. This monument is a testament to ancient engineering, maintaining its function as a crossing over the centuries. The record of a restoration in 1717 underscores its continued importance and the care taken for its preservation throughout history, allowing visitors to appreciate a structure that has withstood the test of time.

Architectural Details

Built predominantly of granite, the bridge stands out for its robustness and characteristic features. Its deck, of the cradle type, rests on two semicircular arches, carved from stonework, distinguished by their unequal dimensions. Functional elements such as the triangular cutwater upstream and the quadrangular cutwater downstream are also observed, structures designed to cut through the water current and protect the bridge. The pavement, made of large and irregular granite slabs, and the original stonework parapets, add to the authenticity and visual charm of this centuries-old edifice.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt