Bridge of Ajuda

The Bridge of Ajuda is a dilapidated bridge that crosses the Guadiana River between Spain and Portugal. The bridge was constructed between 1520 and 1521, during the reign of King D. Manuel I of Portugal. During 1597, many of the archways were damaged or destroyed during flooding.

Between 1640 and 1642, Matias de Albuquerque, Governor of the Alentejo, began the refortification of Olivença with the construction of a third or fourth lines of walls. During this period it is possible that the bridge was rebuilt, since it was in a state of ruin at the time of the Governor's visit to Elvas and Olivença. However, it was partially destroyed by Spanish forces in 1657. It was then rebuilt in the same century.

In 1705, redoubts were constructed to reinforce the bridge over the Guadiana, designed by Manuel da Maia. In 1709 the bridge was partially demolished by artillery during the War of the Spanish Succession.

Eight arches remain along the right margin and 5 along the left margin, consisting of inconsistent rounded arches supported by talhamares. The archivolts, with two rows of staves, are supported by quadrangular pillars reinforced by high talhamares. Along the main platform, an old tower was erected along the sixth arch of the right bank, which was constructed over large boulders, now visible along the margin.

References:

• Wikipedia

Address

Olivenza, Spain

Details

Founded: 1520-1521
Category: Miscellaneous historic sites in Spain