São Gonçalo Bridge

Category: Civil Architecture > Bridge

District: Porto > Amarante > Amarante > Campo da Feira

Location

The São Gonçalo Bridge is located in the vibrant city of Amarante, elegantly situated over the Tâmega River, in the central area known as Campo da Feira. Its prominent position in the heart of the locality offers a privileged perspective of the river's course and blends harmoniously with the urban landscape, with its elevated banks framing the view.

It serves as a vital link, uniting the two banks of the river and marking the center of Amarante, being easily accessible to those exploring the city on foot and seeking its most emblematic sites.

Memory and Reconstruction

The history of the São Gonçalo Bridge is as deep as its foundations. It is believed that a Roman crossing existed at this location, given the importance of the road network of the time. According to local tradition, it was the blessed Gonçalo de Amarante, around 1250, who erected or rebuilt a bridge at this point, mobilizing resources obtained through alms.

The subsequent medieval structure did not withstand the fury of the waters, collapsing during an exceptional flood of the river in February 1763. However, a wayside cross with the image of Our Lady of Good Passage, which adorned the center of the old bridge, was saved before the collapse and is now preserved in the adjacent church, symbolically protecting the traffic over the new structure.

A Legacy of Resistance

The current bridge, designed by architect Carlos Amarante, began its reconstruction in 1782 and was opened to traffic in 1790, being completed the following year with ornamental details. However, its notoriety transcends civil engineering due to its crucial role in the history of Portugal.

In 1809, during the Second French Invasion, this bridge was the scene of a remarkable and heroic defense, where Portuguese forces tenaciously resisted Napoleon's troops for fourteen days. This episode of bravery transformed the São Gonçalo Bridge into an enduring symbol of Amarante's resistance and identity, recognized with its classification as a National Monument since 1910.

Architecture and Contemplation

The São Gonçalo Bridge is a striking example of civil architecture that harmoniously combines elements of the Baroque and Neoclassical styles. Its robust granite structure consists of three unequal arches, with the central arch being the largest, upon which rests a horizontal deck.

Along the deck, four semi-circular balconies stand out, equipped with stone benches, inviting a relaxing pause to contemplate the tranquil waters of the Tâmega and the urban surroundings. At each end, the bridge is adorned with two pairs of faceted Baroque pinnacles, giving it a distinct silhouette and a timeless beauty that makes it one of the most inspiring and photographed scenes in the city.

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