Portugal is full of less disclosed corners that deserve a close look. They are often places away from large centers, where nature and engineering live surprisingly. In the northeast of the country, there is a bridge that illustrates this union well: imposing, harmonious and surrounded by a landscape of enormous beauty, has aroused the curiosity of those who cross it.
A bridge in full transmontane territory
A little over two hours from Porto, between the municipalities of Mogadouro and Alfândega da Fé, the Sardão-Meirinhos Bridge. Although little spoken outside the region, it is considered by many inhabitants as one of the most notable crossings in the country, according to the NCulture.
Situated in one of the most winding zones of the Sabor River, it is part of the layout of the complementary itinerary 5 (IC5), fundamental to local connections. Its construction shortened travel times and improved access in an area where mobility has always been conditioned.
A project postponed for decades
Although foreseen in road plans for over half a century, the bridge was only completed in 2003. Its realization represented a determining advance for local development and reinforced the transmontana road network.
With 560 meters long and 13 meters wide, it has a main span of 160 meters. The pillars reach 75 meters high, and the tray was executed in pre-defeated armed concrete, prepared for the requirements of the terrain.
Adaptation to demanding conditions
With the construction of the low flavor dam, part of the pillars was submerged. This reality required specific technical solutions, such as application of the MasterSeal Polyurean Membrane M 689 to ensure immediateness.
The intervention requested strict planning and use of innovative materials, being pointed out as an example of effective engineering in a challenging natural environment, underlines the same source.
A landscape that surprises
What makes this bridge even more striking is the way it integrates in the surrounding scenario. Surrounded by hills, mountainous vegetation and river itself, offers overview, especially on clear days.
When crossing the tray, the reflection of the sun in water and the slopes creates visual effects that many consider unique. Some even describe it as the most charming bridge in the north of the country.
Accidents that were not forgotten
Despite the relevance, the construction of the Sardão-Meirinhos Bridge was marked by two fatal accidents. In one of them, a 20 -year -old, born in Cinfães, fell from a height of more than 30 meters.
The following led to the temporary suspension of the works and the revision of the safety rules throughout the shipyard. The tragedy made a strong impact on the community involved in the project.
An infrastructure that fulfills an essential function
Today, the bridge plays a crucial role. It turns on two areas of Bragança district and serves daily those who depend on it to circulate. Even so, it remains poorly referred to national level.
This bridge combines functionality with landscape integration. With relevant technical characteristics, it goes unnoticed to many, marks the source mentioned above.
Its presence reinforces the territorial cohesion of Trás-os-Montes, approaching previously isolated locations. It was designed to resist in a context of demanding relief and climate.
A place that deserves to be seen closely
In the immediate vicinity of the bridge, it is possible to appreciate the path of taste and the mountainous framework of the region. Silence, fresh air and vastness of the horizon invite a contemplative break, the.
As a curiosity, be aware that part of the area where the bridge is considered is a priority to observe migratory birds due to the proximity of protected habitats from the flavor reservoir, and occasionally records black stork colonies, one of the rarest birds in Europe.
There is yet another less known curiosity: the constructive method chosen for the 160 m central span: The Sardão-Meirinhos Bridge was performed in successive song (advance by concrete manner of about 5 m), without the need for scaffolding or running in the River Sabor river. This technique allowed to minimize the environmental impact, reduce risks for aquatic fauna and accelerate the calendar of work, being at the time (early 2000s) one of the largest spans in Cantilever built in Portugal.
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