Ensemble consisting of the Roman pavement and bridge and watermill in Catribana
Ensemble consisting of the Roman pavement and bridge and watermill in Catribana, Roman bridge near Sintra, Portugal
Welcome to the Roman Bridge of Catribana, a historical landmark located near the village of Catribana in the parish of São João das Lampas, in the municipality of Sintra in the Lisbon District of Portugal. This touristic guide will provide you with all the information you need to know about this fascinating site. The Roman Bridge of Catribana was not identified as a Roman bridge until the 1980s. It is believed that the bridge provided access for a Roman villa to a main road or connected two important Roman villas at the time when the area was part of the Roman Olisipo, in the province of Lusitania, which formed part of the Roman Empire. The bridge is made of local limestone blocks and has undergone several changes over the centuries. In 2019, it was restored due to considerable degradation. The Roman Bridge of Catribana is composed of a single arch and parapet. On its south side is a section of a Roman path, about 50 meters long, which gives access to the bridge. The bridge crosses the Bolelas stream and is an impressive example of Roman engineering. Close to the bridge, archaeologists have identified vestiges of a Roman-era cemetery together with remains of a Neolithic settlement. These discoveries provide insight into the history of the area and add to the significance of the Roman Bridge of Catribana. The Roman Bridge of Catribana is easily accessible by car or public transportation. It is recommended to visit during daylight hours and to wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven. Admission to the site is free. If you are interested in learning more about the history of the area, the Archaeological Museum of São Miguel de Odrinhas is located nearby. Additionally, there are many other historical landmarks and natural attractions in the Sintra area, such as the Pena Palace and the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. The Roman Bridge of Catribana is a must-see attraction for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in Roman engineering. Its location near other historical landmarks and natural attractions makes it a great addition to any itinerary in the Sintra area.
Location: São João das Lampas e Terrugem
Sources: Wikimedia, OpenStreetMap