Ponte Dom Luis I Bridge Porto

Ponte Dom Luís I, Porto

The Ponte Dom Luís I is a true icon of the city of Porto and a marvel of 19th century engineering. The Dom Luís I Bridge spans the River Douro between Porto on the north bank and Vila Nova de Gaia on the south bank.

History

Designed by German architect, Téophile Seyrig (1843-1923), a disciple and business partner of French engineer Alexandre Gustave Eiffel (of Eiffel Tower fame), the Ponte Dom Luís I had the longest span of any metal bridge in the world when it was completed in 1886.

Originally meant for road traffic, now the upper span carries Line D of the Porto metro and a pedestrian walkway, while the lower deck is for road traffic and pedestrians with no fear of vertigo.

There are wonderful views over the 18th century skyline of Porto including Porto Cathedral and the Torre dos Clerigos from the top deck and from near Jardim do Morro metro station.

Ponte Luis I, Porto, Portugal. — Ponte Dom Luís I

Ponte Luis I, Portugal. — Ponte Dom Luís I, Porto

Téophile Seyrig also built the similar looking Ponte Maria Pia, a kilometer to the east. The Dom Luís I Bridge can easily be reached from Cais da Ribeira and is a pleasant walk downhill from Sao Bento Station along Avenida de Dom Afonso Henriques.

From near the top level of the bridge connect with the Teleférico de Gaia cable car for an aerial ride over the port lodges of Gaia. The Funicular dos Guindais leads down to the bridge on the north side. The bridge is illuminated at night.