Pilares da Ponte Pênsil

The Suspension Bridge, also called D. Maria II Bridge, in honor of the then Queen of Portugal D. Maria II, was a suspension bridge that linked the banks of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia and came to replace Ponte das Barcas.

Its construction was commissioned to the company Claranges Lucotte & Cie in 1841, having been inaugurated in 1843.

However, its use lasted only 44 years, since it was said that the bridge trembled like "green sticks". This insecurity led to the bridge being deactivated and dismantled in 1887 and next to it built the Ponte Luis I.

At present there are only two obelisk-shaped stone pillars, as well as the ruins of the military guard house that regulated the bridge's operation. Since 2012 you can also enjoy the historical site on the terrace of the Ponte Pênsil Bar, located just below the structure.