Consider a time long ago when Rome ruled. This is Ponte Romana de Barrimau. It stands as a testament to Roman engineering. It whispers tales of emperors and legions.
This bridge is a public monument of interest. The Ponte Romana de Barrimau has stood for centuries. It is located near Vreia de Jales. You can find it next to the new Barrela bridge. This is on the EM 567 road. It connects Alfarela de Jales to Pinhão Cele. Look for kilometer 14 on the EN 212.
Imagine Roman engineers carefully placing stones. They built this bridge over the Pinhão River. The Ponte Romana de Barrimau connected Vreia de Jales to Pinhão Cele. This was part of an old road. It runs almost parallel to a new road.
The Ponte Romana de Barrimau is in a rural area. It is somewhat isolated. Vegetation partly hides the bridge. You may also notice the remains of an old watermill nearby. The bridge has a flat deck. It is about four meters wide. A single perfect arch supports it. This arch is made of narrow stone wedges.
Look closely at the stonework. You will see different styles. The lower part has regular stonework. Some rows are isodomic. This means the stones are the same size. The upper rows show irregular blocks. These blocks are poorly faced.
On the left bank, a support wall protects the foundation. It runs at an angle. It ends at the bridge’s abutment. Inside the arch, you can still see holes. These held the wooden supports during construction. The pavement is made of stone slabs. Stone guardrails remain.
The Ponte Romana de Barrimau likely dates back to Roman times. It was probably first built then. The bridge was renovated in medieval times. In 1758, a vicar described it. Francisco Gonçalves de Carvalho said it was a stone bridge. It had one arch. The bridge was renovated again in modern times.
The Vila Pouca de Aguiar Municipal Council proposed classifying it in 2003. The DRPorto suggested opening a classification process. The Portuguese Institute of Archaeology gave a favorable opinion in 2006. In 2010, DRCNorte proposed classifying it. It would become a Monument of Public Interest. A Special Protection Zone would be defined.
The bridge’s structure is self-supporting. It is made of granite blocks. The paving uses granite slabs.
The Ponte Romana de Barrimau is more than just stones. It is a link to our past. It is a reminder of Roman ingenuity. Cross this bridge. Feel the weight of history beneath your feet. Think about the countless travelers who crossed before you. This bridge still serves its original purpose. It is a testament to enduring design. The Ponte Romana de Barrimau connects us to the past. It will continue to do so for generations.