Old bridge in Cheleiros

Category: Civil Architecture > Bridge

District: Lisboa > Mafra > Cheleiros > Ponte antiga em Cheleiros

Location

The old bridge in Cheleiros is set in a picturesque scene, crossing the Cheleiros stream. Positioned as the southeastern boundary of the Cheleiros settlement, this bridge connects the cluster of houses to the cultivated fields that extend across the opposite bank of the river. It is common to see sheep grazing peacefully in these rural lands, contributing to the serene and traditional atmosphere of the place.

The surrounding environment is characterized by its rural nature, offering an authentic perspective of the landscape of the Mafra region, with the murmur of the stream accompanying the crossing.

Past and Legacy

The history of the old bridge in Cheleiros dates back to ancient times, with indications that its current structure, possibly from the medieval period (13th-14th centuries), stands on the foundations of an even older Roman bridge. The surrounding area is recognized for its richness in archaeological remains from the Roman era, underscoring the strategic importance of this crossing point over the centuries. As early as 1154, documents referred to the existence of a road that linked Cheleiros to other localities, suggesting the presence of a bridge to cross the stream.

Throughout its existence, the bridge underwent interventions, notably in the 18th century, when its deck was reconfigured, replacing the original stones with rounded river pebbles. Since 1982, the old bridge in Cheleiros has been officially classified as an Immovable Property of Public Interest, recognizing its historical and heritage relevance.

Design and Materials

This bridge stands out for its single arch architecture with a perfect roundness, a feature that gives it a robust and classic appearance. Its deck has a humpback shape, with a gentle ascending ramp that rises above the stream. The parapets, or side walls, are made of small masonry, once plastered, while the interior of the arch displays well-worked stonework.

The current pavement of the bridge consists of rounded river pebbles, a detail that gives a particular texture to the surface and invites a careful walk over this structure that has spanned centuries of history.

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