João Joaquim Isidro dos Reis Bridge

Category: Civil Architecture > Bridge

District: Santarém > Chamusca > Chamusca > Chamusca e Pinheiro Grande

Location

Located in Chamusca, this bridge spans the waters of the Tejo River, connecting to the other bank. Its location offers an interesting perspective on the riverside landscape and the town itself, inviting observers to take in the surroundings from the deck.

A Historical Perspective

The João Joaquim Isidro dos Reis Bridge was officially opened in 1909. Its construction represented a fundamental change for the region. Before its existence, crossing the Tejo River depended on ferries, a time-consuming process with limitations. The bridge greatly facilitated transport and communication between the banks, better integrating Chamusca into the region's dynamics. The bridge's name honors João Joaquim Isidro dos Reis, a figure who played an active and decisive role in the realization of this much-needed work.

Architecture and Structure

This bridge is a remarkable example of iron architecture, a popular material in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. With an length of 756 meters, it is an imposing structure that stands out in the landscape. It is composed of several metallic sections, and its deck includes lanes for traffic and side walkways intended for pedestrians. These walkways allow visitors to cross the bridge safely on foot, observing the river and the structure up close.

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