Ponte Da Barca

Category: Civil Architecture > Quay

District: Viana do Castelo > Ponte da Barca > Entre Ambos-os-Rios > Parque de Campismo

Location

The Ponte de Ponte da Barca bridge is located in the eponymous town, a central point in the Alto Minho landscape. This iconic structure stretches over the serene waters of the Lima River, set within a riverside environment characterized by its lush vegetation and tranquil atmosphere. Its prominent position in the town gives it a distinguished role in both the urban and natural landscape.

A Historical Testament

Built in the first half of the 15th century, the bridge is a historical landmark that evokes the passage of people and the region's development. It was granted the distinction of National Monument in 1910, a recognition of its heritage value and its relevance to local and national history. The very name of the town, and consequently of the bridge, originates from the old ferry (barca) that preceded this structure, ensuring river crossing and serving as a crucial point on pilgrimage routes.

Architectural Features

With a length of one hundred and eighty meters, the Ponte de Ponte da Barca bridge exhibits an impressive medieval architectural design. Its robust construction is supported by ten arches, which form a harmonious visual sequence over the bed of the Lima River. The design of this bridge was inspired by the nearby Ponte de Ponte de Lima bridge, sharing aesthetic and constructive similarities that reflect the practices of the era.

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