Medieval Bridge of Vilar de Mouros

Category: Civil Architecture > Bridge

District: Viana do Castelo > Caminha > Vilar de Mouros

Location

The Medieval Bridge of Vilar de Mouros is located in the village of Vilar de Mouros, part of the municipality of Caminha. Erected over the serene waters of the River Coura, this bridge is a central element in the riverside landscape. Its striking presence establishes a crucial connection between the riverbanks, integrating naturally into the dynamics of the parish and its surrounding environment.

A Historical Legacy

Dating back to the medieval period, with its construction estimated between the 14th and 15th centuries, the Bridge of Vilar de Mouros is a remarkable example of the engineering of its time. Since 1910, this monument has been classified as a National Monument, a recognition of its importance and heritage value. It is acknowledged as a significant prototype for Gothic bridges built in Portugal, testifying to the constructive mastery of the era.

Architectural Features

Built of robust granite, the bridge features a "cavalete" (gabled) deck, meaning it is slightly arched, rising gently from its access ramps. Its structure rests on three Gothic arches, with the central arch being the largest and the focal point of the work. The pavement, cobbled with flagstone in the central area, suggests the division of the deck into two lanes, adapted to the traffic of the time. Upstream, the bridge features a prismatic cutwater, an architectural element designed to cut the water current and protect the structure.

An Essential Crossing Point

Maintaining its original function, the Medieval Bridge of Vilar de Mouros continues to be an active crossing, serving both pedestrian and road traffic. Its existence is fundamental for the connectivity of the parish, allowing the transposition of the River Coura. The structure has been reinforced over time and includes width restrictors, ensuring its preservation and the safety of circulation on a monument that, despite its age, remains vital in local daily life.

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