Roman Bridge of Taipas

Category: Civil Architecture > Bridge

District: Braga > Guimarães > Ponte

Location

Situated in the locality of Ponte, in the municipality of Guimarães, this bridge spans the Ave River, establishing the connection between the banks corresponding to the parishes of Caldelas and Ponte. Its unique location offers a tranquil and serene environment, where the centuries-old structure integrates into the riverside landscape, enhancing the natural beauty of the valley.

History and Recognition

Although popularly known as the Roman Bridge, its construction dates back to the 16th and 17th centuries, falling within the Early Modern period. However, the site where it stands has a long history of passage and strategic importance, used as a public road since Antiquity and consolidated in the Middle Ages as a fundamental link between settlements. The bridge's historical and architectural relevance was officially recognized in 1926, when it was classified as a National Monument.

Architectural Characteristics

Built entirely of granite, the bridge features a flat-decked roadway, resting on a remarkable set of thirty-six robust pillars. This long and massive structure stands out for the width of its ashlar parapets, which were designed to allow pedestrian crossing even during periods of river flooding. On the upstream side, the faces of the pillars display a triangular shape, a constructive detail intended to mitigate the force of the river current.

Details and Scenery

The bridge's pavement is made up of long granite slabs, laid parallel between the pillars, contributing to its solidity and durability. On the parapets, cavities are visible at regular intervals, remnants of an old iron railing that once complemented the structure. At the northern entrance, the remains of a wayside shrine persist, marking its antiquity. Currently, the bridge is mirrored in the waters of the Ave River, surrounded by lush vegetation, providing a picturesque setting and an invitation to contemplation.

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