Ponte Vella, Medieval footbridge in Ourense, Spain
Ponte Vella is a stone bridge crossing the Minho River with seven arches that span a considerable distance across the water. The structure combines Roman foundations with medieval stonework, creating layers of construction from different periods that are visible in its walls.
The bridge was originally founded during Roman times, but its current form comes from the medieval period, with major rebuilding in 1230. It was reconstructed again after a collapse, which helped strengthen the structure for centuries to come.
The bridge served as a vital passage for pilgrims and merchants traveling between Ourense and Santiago de Compostela for centuries. You can sense the weight of history in how people still cross it today, following routes that have connected communities for generations.
The bridge is exclusively for pedestrians and connects both riverbanks with clear access points on either side. The stone surface can be slippery when wet, so wear appropriate footwear and take your time crossing.
The central arch is remarkably large and was engineered to dominate the water flowing beneath it. This feat of engineering was extraordinary for its time and reveals the technical skill of those who built it.
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