Mirandela Old Bridge

Mirandela Old Bridge, officially recorded as the Bridge over the Tua, is one of the city's most recognisable monuments and an integral part of the urban landscape along the River Tua. Historical references indicate that an earlier bridge existed at this location, while construction of the present monument took place mainly between the late 15th and early 16th centuries, spanning the reigns of João II and Manuel I. A document dating from 1514 shows that construction work was still under way at that time. Built of granite, the bridge combines architectural features associated with the transition from the late Middle Ages to the early modern period. The outer arches display Gothic characteristics, while the round central arches reflect a language closer to Renaissance architecture. The structure underwent numerous repairs and alterations over the centuries. It is believed to have originally had twenty arches. In 1866, one arch was closed, reducing the total to nineteen. Severe flooding in 1909 caused four arches near the right bank to collapse. During reconstruction in 1910, these were replaced by two larger arches, producing the seventeen-arch configuration visible today. Approximately 230 metres long, the bridge rests on piers protected by cutwaters designed to withstand the force of the River Tua. For centuries it provided an essential route between the two banks. Road traffic continued across the bridge until a new crossing opened in 1970. Today, the Old Bridge is reserved for pedestrians. Classified as a National Monument in 1910, it remains central to Mirandela's identity and connects the historic centre with the riverside areas on the opposite bank.