Medieval Bridge

Category: Civil Architecture > Bridge

District: Viana do Castelo > Arcos de Valdevez > Soajo > Vilar de Suente

Location

In the locality of Soajo, municipality of Arcos de Valdevez, the Medieval Bridge is situated in the picturesque area of Vilar de Suente. Rising over the Vez River, this construction integrates serenely and harmoniously into the rural landscape, characterized by extensive cultivated fields and luxuriant vegetation. Its isolated position offers a tranquil environment, ideal for appreciating its beauty and the surrounding nature.

Architecture and Materials

This bridge, whose construction is estimated to date back to the 13th century, is a notable example of Romanesque architecture. It is distinguished by possessing two arches of unequal sizes, one a perfect round arch and the other pointed, giving it a particularly unusual profile. The structure ingeniously adapts to the terrain, featuring access ramps with distinct inclinations on each side, and a humpbacked deck. At its center, on the upstream face, a robust prismatic cutwater complements its solidity. The entire work is built of granite, with the parapet in dressed stonework and the pavement composed of large irregular slabs, testifying to the durability of the materials used.

Historical Memory

The antiquity of this bridge is attested by references dating back to 1258, indicating its presence in the Minho landscape since the first half of the 13th century. Over the centuries, it was the scene of important crossings, notably during the Portuguese Restoration War, in October 1662. On this occasion, an invading army used the bridge as a strategic retreat route, after recognizing the impossibility of advancing on Braga or Ponte de Lima. Currently, its importance is officially recognized, being classified as a Property of Public Interest, which underscores its value to the national heritage.

Traditions and Devotion

Associated with this ancient crossing, there is a fascinating local tradition. It is said that the stonemasons responsible for its construction made a solemn vow: to build a chapel nearby, dedicated to Saint Benedict and Saint Lucia, if they succeeded in closing the bridge arches. Although the original chapel has not withstood the test of time, there remains today, on the south end of the bridge, a small wayside shrine with the painted image of Saint Lucia, a living testimony to this history and the popular devotion that endures in the place.

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