Spain - Alcantara Bridge

 

Stamp Issue : 1991-12-16 

Alcantara Bridge was first constructed in 866 AD, close to the ruins of a Roman Bridge. The Arab bridge was in turn washed away, except for the piers and abutments, in 1257 and reconstructed by Alfonso X. There were further restorations in the 15th and 16th Centuries. The masonry of the bridge contains stones of Roman, Visagothic and Arab origin, as do the nearby walls. The massive tower guarding the West end of the bridge is Mudejar work. The gate beyond was undoubtedly one of the oldest entries to the city, for the Roman Toletum, and subsequently the Visigothic Palace of Galiana and the Arab Medina crowned the slope behind it.