Puente de San Fernando, Madrid, Stone bridge in Monte de El Pardo, Madrid, Spain
Puente de San Fernando is a stone bridge crossing the Manzanares River in Monte de El Pardo consisting of two separate sections with a combined total of seven arches. The left segment contains four arches while the right contains three, and the entire structure is built from granite blocks.
The bridge was built in 1749 during the reign of Ferdinand VI, replacing a former wooden walkway that provided access to the El Pardo Royal Estate. Following a flood in 1856, the structure was modified and a second segment with three additional arches was added.
The structure displays two statues created by Vicente Bort representing Saint Fernando and Saint Barbara on opposite pedestals along the parapet. These religious figures shape how visitors experience the crossing and reflect devotional traditions.
The bridge width ranges from 6.2 to 8.0 meters and currently serves as part of Madrid's cycling ring, making it a practical route for cyclists. Visitors should note that the granite surface can become slippery when wet and sturdy footwear is recommended.
The two segments of this bridge were built at different times, with the second segment added as a necessary expansion following flood damage. This makes the crossing an example of how infrastructure adapts to changing conditions over time.
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