Category: Civil Architecture > Bridge
District: Portalegre > Elvas > Elvas > Ajuda
The Nossa Senhora da Ajuda Bridge, also called the Olivença Bridge, is located over the Guadiana River. It connects the parish of Assunção, Ajuda, Salvador and Santo Ildefonso, in the municipality of Elvas, to the town of Olivença, currently administered by Spain.
Currently, the bridge is in ruins, being a point of historical interest. A new bridge was built nearby in 2000 to facilitate the connection between Portugal and Spain.
It was ordered to be built by D. Manuel I of Portugal in 1510, with the aim of assisting in the movement of Portuguese military troops in support of the Castle of Olivença. For centuries, the bridge played a strategic role, especially during military conflicts.
Over the years, the bridge suffered several damages, namely:
, In 1597, some arches fell due to floods.
, In 1641, it was repaired after damage caused by harsh winters.
, In 1646 and 1709, it was partially destroyed by the Spanish army in different conflicts, remaining in ruins since the last explosion in 1709.
The bridge was classified as a Property of Public Interest in 1967, recognizing its historical and patrimonial importance.
The bridge was 380 meters long and 5.5 meters wide, supported by 19 arches. In the center, there was a defensive turret with three floors and windows, based on rocks that can still be seen today.
Although in ruins, the Ponte de Nossa Senhora da Ajuda is an important cultural and tourist landmark, symbolizing the historical connection between Portugal and Olivença, as well as the territorial disputes over the centuries.
Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ponte_da_Ajuda
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 38.775909843663975,-7.170484481289736
Coordinates DMS: 38°46'33.3"N 07°10'13.7"W
Weather Elvas
On-duty Pharmacy Elvas
