Ponte do Prado

The Bridge of Prado (Ponte do Prado) over the Cávado River was originally a Roman bridge. It was re-constructed during the 16th century when the original had been destroyed following flooding and consistent use. There are few vestiges of the Roman bridge.

The bridge's exit (to the north) fronts the Praça do Conselheiro Sousa Lima, a gardened area, the site of a 16th-century pillory marking Prado's historical importance as a municipality until the 19th century.

The flat-top shallow cantilever bridge consists of nine Roman arches that progressively increase in size the closer to the centre of the span, with the three largest arches slightly peaked. Eight triangular abutments protect the base of the bridge from debris, while polygonal structures downstream act as reinforcements.

References:

• Wikipedia

Address

N201 100, Vila Verde, Portugal

Details

Founded: 1580
Category: Miscellaneous historic sites in Portugal