Puente de la Cárcel, Estella-Lizarra, Medieval bridge in Estella-Lizarra, Spain.
Puente de la Cárcel is a bridge with characteristic pointed arches that crosses the Ega River and connects the San Pedro de la Rúa district with the old town. The structure displays typical medieval river-crossing design with its distinctive curved form that stands out against the landscape.
The original structure dates to the 12th century and was rebuilt in 1873 after destruction during the Third Carlist War. The reconstruction preserved the characteristic medieval arch design of the earlier building.
This bridge serves as a key waypoint where pilgrims on the Way of Saint James converge during their journey through the region. Visitors today use it as a natural meeting point between the two sides of the town divided by the river.
The bridge is easily accessible on foot and provides passage between both river banks for pedestrians and cyclists. From here visitors can observe the Ega River and explore the surrounding area from different vantage points.
The name Puente Picudo refers to the unusual pointed shape of the arch, which sets this structure apart from other river crossings in the area. This distinctive sharp form was a practical solution for stable construction over the flowing water.
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