Ribeira Bridge

Category: Civil Architecture > Bridge

District: Vila Real > Vila Real > Abaças

Location

The Ribeira Bridge is located in the village of Abaças, belonging to the municipality and district of Vila Real. This ancient crossing stands over the Tanha River, nestled in a natural and tranquil environment, characteristic of the Trás-os-Montes landscape.

Its position offers an authentic perspective of a rural area, far from urban bustle, providing a serene setting for observing its historical structure and the riverside surroundings.

Antiquity and Historical Journey

This granite bridge is a silent testament to past eras, having been most likely built between the 13th and 14th centuries. Its construction dates back to a period when bridges were essential for territorial connectivity and the development of trade routes.

Throughout the centuries, the Ribeira Bridge played a crucial role, forming part of the ancient path that linked the city of Vila Real to the fertile lands of the Douro region, facilitating the transit of people and goods between these important areas.

Architectural Characteristics

The Ribeira Bridge stands out for its robust and functional architecture, built with local granite, a material that gives it great durability and integration into the landscape. Its structure is notable for its single semi-circular arch, an ingenious solution that demonstrates the technical knowledge of medieval builders.

The bridge deck, in turn, features a slight hump, a gentle elevation in the center that, while discreet, is a distinctive architectural feature of its design, contributing to its elegance and stability over time.

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