Roman Bridge of Cordoba

Roman Bridge of Cordoba in the Evening

This bridge is a true testament to the resilience and adaptability of a city and its people. It’s a living piece of history that has stood the test of time and continues to be a vital part of Cordoba’s ancient center.

The Roman Bridge of Cordoba was built in the 1st century BC by the Romans as a way to cross the Guadalquivir River, which flows through the heart of Cordoba. It was a vital player in the city’s battles with, amongst others, the ominously named Peter the Cruel in the 1350s. The bridge has undergone a number of reconstructions over the centuries, but it still stands strong today.

The bridge has 16 arches supported by irregular semi-cylindrical buttresses and is 247 meters long by approximately 9 meters wide. At the southern end is the Torre de la Calahorra (Calahorra Tower), a fortified tower built in the 12th century by the resident Almohad Caliphate to protect the bridge and at the northern end is the Puerta del Puente (Gate of the Bridge) built over 300 years later in the 1570s. In the 17th century, a sculpture of St. Raphael was added to the eastern side by renowned Renaissance sculptor Bernabé Gómez del Rio.

Today, while only the 14th and 15th arches from the northern end are original, the Roman Bridge continues to form an unmissable part of Cordoba’s ancient center – particularly at dusk when the sun lingers on the golden red stone and highlights the arches. Visitors to the historic city can walk the bridge in either direction, from the Great Mosque to the Torre de Calahorra at the south end.

The Roman Bridge of Cordoba is more than just an ancient relic; it’s a symbol of continuity in the ever-changing tapestry of time. Its historical significance, architectural marvel, cultural importance, and modern-day utility make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, or simply the beauty of the world around us. So, if you’re ever in Cordoba, don’t forget to take a stroll across this magnificent bridge and soak in the history and beauty of this ancient city.