Gimonde Bridge

The origin of this bridge is believed to be a structure built during the process of Romanization of this region of the Northwestern Iberian Peninsula, as part of the so-called Via XVII, which connected Bracara Augusta (Braga) to Asturica Augusta (Astorga), passing through Aquae Flaviae (Chaves). It would have also served the inhabitants of the Castro de Gimonde, where numerous traces of Roman occupation have been identified and collected. Few remnants remain of the original construction, which was likely made of shale, the most abundant material in the region, mixed with clay in an opus incertum style.

The existing bridge is made of shale masonry and features six identical semi-circular arches, constructed with narrow, long voussoirs made from well-prepared shale slabs. It has a length of 144 meters and a total width of 4.5 meters. On both sides, there are five triangular cutwaters. The humpbacked deck is enclosed by shale parapets that are 0.40 meters thick. In the middle of the bridge, there was a large round opening that directed water to a mill that once existed here.

Indeed, this bridge underwent significant modifications during the medieval period, which is a clear indication of its continued relevance and purpose. Originally constructed for the convenience of pilgrims traveling to Santiago de Compostela, the bridge stands as a testament to its enduring historical significance.