Celtic Bridge

Category: Civil Architecture > Bridge

District: Viana do Castelo > Melgaço > Portos

Elevated Location

The Celtic Bridge is located in Lugar de Portos, belonging to the parish of Castro Laboreiro, in the municipality of Melgaço. Situated at an altitude of approximately 1200 meters, this bridge crosses the River Portos, nestled within the vast plateau of the Serra do Laboreiro.

Its surroundings are characterized by an imposing natural landscape, with cultivated fields delimited by traditional stone walls. It is a place that reflects the rustic beauty of the region, where the simplicity of its construction harmonizes with the mountain environment.

Architectural Features

The bridge is distinguished by its robust and natural appearance, built with irregularly shaped granite blocks. This technique gives it a rough and rustic look, characteristic of local vernacular architecture. Although the name "Celtic" suggests an ancient origin, its construction is generally attributed to the 19th or early 20th century.

The popular designation "Celtic Bridge" derives from its notable V-shaped trusses, which support the deck. This architectural particularity makes it a unique structure among the bridges in the Melgaço region.

A Pastoral Legacy

Historically, the Celtic Bridge was a vital point on the ancient routes connecting Castro Laboreiro to Galicia. It played a fundamental role in the movement of populations, especially during transhumance periods, when pastoralism was a central activity.

The bridge allowed access from Lugar de Portos de Cima to the Castro Laboreiro plateau, serving as an essential link between the "brandas" (summer settlements in the highlands) and the "inverneiras" (winter settlements in more sheltered areas). It thus represents a testament to the ancestral life and customs of the mountains, connecting the present to the region's rural past.

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