Ponte Velha de Silves, Medieval stone bridge in Silves, Portugal.
Ponte Velha de Silves is a stone bridge that crosses the Arade River using multiple arches built from local materials. Its structure displays traditional construction techniques used when it was built.
Although sometimes called a Roman bridge, this structure dates from the medieval period, likely from the 14th century. It was built on foundations of an earlier crossing that served earlier traffic needs.
The bridge is called the Old Bridge and connects two parts of town that developed separately over time. Locals and visitors use it daily as a natural passage through the historic center.
The bridge is easy to reach and regularly used by pedestrians exploring the historic center. Visitors should expect it to be busy during peak times as it is a main walking route.
The bridge's arches show specific features of medieval Portuguese engineering that are rarely photographed or fully documented. These details reveal how builders of that era shaped river crossings with available materials and tools.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
