Lower Carenque Philippine Bridge

Category: Civil Architecture > Bridge

District: Lisboa > Sintra > Queluz > Vale de Carenque

Location

Situated in the Carenque Valley, in the locality of Queluz, this historic bridge belongs to the municipality of Sintra. It is strategically located over the Carenque Stream, marking the transition between the Parish of Venteira, in the municipality of Amadora, and the Parish of Queluz e Belas, in the Sintra area. Today, it offers a serene and exclusive passage for pedestrians, integrated into an environment that invites a peaceful stroll along the watercourse.

Origin and Historical Legacy

The Filipina Bridge of Carenque de Baixo, sometimes known as the Old Bridge or Lido Bridge, dates back to the 17th century, with its construction completed in 1631. Its construction was an initiative of the Senate of Lisbon, and a stone marker on it commemorates this origin with the inscription: "This bridge was ordered to be built by the Senate of Lisbon at the cost of the royal people, 1631". In that period, the bridge played a vital role, forming part of the old Royal Road that linked Lisbon to Sintra and passed near the Queluz Palace. For many years, it served as an essential link for road traffic, witnessing the movement and development of the region.

Architecture and Preservation

This example of 17th-century engineering stands out for its robust construction in masonry and limestone ashlar. It features two round arches and a deck with a slight slope, forming a not very pronounced "hump". The solidity of its design is remarkable, with the structure having withstood the test of time, including significant events such as the 1755 Earthquake. In recognition of its significant historical and architectural value, the Filipina Bridge of Carenque de Baixo was classified as a Property of Municipal Interest in 2006, ensuring its preservation. Currently, the bridge is exclusively for pedestrian circulation, offering visitors the opportunity to appreciate its structure and the surrounding environment with tranquility.

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