El Segovia Bridge It is the oldest bridge preserved in Madrid. Originally it was part of the Madrid beautification program promoted by Philip II after converting Madrid in the capital of their kingdoms. With him Toledo Bridge  are historic bridges of Madrid most emblematic.

The bridge is built with granite ashlars, has 9 eyes, with padded semicircular arches. Start the project Gaspar de Vega and I conclude it  Juan de Herrera, the preferred architect of Felipe II. In 1740, another architect, Theodore Ardemans, designed the Puerta de Segovia, which disappeared many decades ago. The bridge extends from Segovia Street to the Glorieta del Puente de Segovia. This bridge over the Manzanares River gave way to the Camino de Segovia, one of the main entrances to the city.

Its solid-looking structure and rounded, forceful shapes are Herrera's trademark. On the parapets that top the parapet or security wall, we can observe the presence of granite balls, a peculiarity in the works of the brilliant Cantabrian architect.

In November 1936, during the Civil War Spanish, was blown up by the Republican side to prevent Franco's troops from entering Madrid. After the war, it was rebuilt introducing some variations with respect to the original design. It was widened, increasing its deck from 8,60 to 30 meters. Four skids (two on each side) and a pier, located at its feet, were built in the context of the Manzanares River channeling works.

In 1960 it was renovated, within the primitive design that would give way in 1970 to the construction of the M-30 ring road, and in that rehabilitation it lost part of its architectural harmony. It once again underwent modifications with the burying of the M-30 under the course of the Manzanares River, undertaken between 2005 and 2006. The M-30 underground works They uncovered different archaeological remains, corresponding to a primitive bridge located a little north of the current one.

The views from the Segovia Bridge when we access it from the Madrid River They are one of the most characteristic of Madrid with the image of the Royal Palace and the Almudena Cathedral.

A highly recommended walk and an exceptional watchtower as well, for see waterfowl in winter in our beloved Manzanares River.

A abrazo.