Category: Civil Architecture > Bridge
District: Vila Real > Murça > Murça > Ponte Velha
Ponte Velha is located in Murça, in the urban area precisely known as Ponte Velha. This imposing structure crosses the Tinhela River, nestled within a landscape that invites careful observation of its architecture and the riverside surroundings. Its location within the town of Murça allows for easy access, inviting visitors to discover its history.
Commonly referred to as Ponte Velha by the local population, this crossing over the Tinhela River has origins dating back to the Roman period. Its designation as "Philippine Bridge" stems from a significant reconstruction that occurred between 1583 and 1595, during the reign of Philip II of Castile, who was also Philip I of Portugal. This intervention is marked by patterns on the river's left bank, serving as a testament to its history. In recognition of its significance and preservation, the bridge was classified as a Property of Public Interest in 1983.
When traversing Ponte Velha, one can observe a series of details that reveal its rich history. On the north side, near the entrance, a stone bears a carved coat of arms, with five escutcheons arranged in a cross, seven castles, and a sphere surrounding them. In the same spot, capital inscriptions, such as O.L.C.O.T., and a metallic cross oriented towards the east can be identified. Other patterns and stones on the bridge and in its vicinity contain letters such as M.O.M.A.S.B.S.M. and R.V., in addition to the date 1841, which suggests a period of restoration. A few tens of meters from the bridge's exit, on the right bank, the date 1818 is carved, another mark of the structure's continuous use and maintenance over the centuries.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 41.4012621, -7.4647863333333
Coordinates DMS: 41°24'4.5"N 07°27'53.2"W
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