Bridge over the Tua River or Old Bridge

Category: Civil Architecture > Bridge

District: Bragança > Mirandela > Mirandela

Location and Importance

The bridge over the Tua River, also called the Old Bridge, is one of the historical landmarks of the city of Mirandela, located in the municipality of Mirandela, in Trás-os-Montes. It is one of the three bridges that cross the Tua River in this city.

Classification

Since 1910, the bridge over the Tua River has been classified as a National Monument, making it an important tourist and heritage point of interest in the region.

History of the Bridge

The origin of the bridge dates back to the 16th century, having been completed in 1536. For a long time, it was the main route connecting the two banks of the river. However, in the mid-20th century, it was replaced by a new bridge for road traffic. The current bridge is now exclusively for pedestrians.

Bridge Structure

The bridge is built in Romanesque style and is composed of several arches. Originally, the bridge had 20 arches, but after the floods of 1909, some of the arches were damaged and the structure was reinforced. Today, you can see 19 arches, with two new, wider arches built after the destruction caused by the floods.

Repairs and Maintenance

Over the centuries, the bridge has undergone several repairs, such as those carried out in 1726, 1792, 1807 and 1844. Some marks from the stonemasonry work can still be seen on the arches.

Niches and Images

On the bridge there used to be two niches, one on each side, with images of Nossa Senhora do Amparo (Our Lady of Protection) and Nossa Senhora dos Aflitos (Our Lady of the Afflicted). However, these niches were removed in 1876 during one of the bridge's renovations.

Pedestrian Access

The bridge is exclusively for pedestrians and is a popular place for quiet walks, offering a unique view over the Tua River and the city of Mirandela.

Tourist Attraction

The bridge over the Tua River is one of the most sought-after attractions in Mirandela, with great historical and cultural significance, being an ideal place for those who want to learn more about local history and enjoy a calm and picturesque environment.

Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ponte_sobre_o_rio_Tua

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