Roman Bridge of São Lourenço

Category: Civil Architecture > Bridge

District: Vila Real > Chaves > São Lourenço

Location

Located in the peaceful village of São Lourenço, in the municipality of Chaves, the Roman Bridge crosses the stream that shares its name. This serene location offers a glimpse of the surrounding rural landscape, inviting a calm observation of the structure and the watercourse flowing beneath it.

Architectural Testimony

The São Lourenço Bridge is a remarkable example of Roman engineering, notable for its simple yet robust construction. It features a structure with a single arch, characteristic of the era, and a flat deck, without side railings. Approximately 8 meters long and 4 meters wide, its modest size does not diminish the excellence of Roman construction technique, clearly visible in the solidity of its stones and its durability over the centuries.

Legacy of Ancient Rome

This bridge is not merely a passage over water; it represents a link to the region's Roman past. It was an integral part of Itinerarium XVII, one of the most important Roman roads in the Iberian Peninsula. This ancient path connected cities such as Braga and Astorga, passing through Chaves, and the São Lourenço Bridge played a fundamental role in its course. Its presence is a strong indication of Roman occupation and the strategic importance this territory held millennia ago.

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