The bridge contains 15 arches of original Roman construction from the 1st century AD.
The Verraco statue at the bridge entrance is attributed to the Vettones, an ancient Celtic people inhabiting the region before Romanization.
The bridge was a vital section of the Vía de la Plata, a Roman silver road stretching over 470 kilometers.
An inscription on the bridge identifies it as part of the 'Via Delapidata', providing historical evidence of its Roman origins.
The Tormes River, which the bridge crosses, has caused multiple destructive floods, leading to major structural interventions in 1626.
The bridge features a specific stone pillar known as the 'Rollo' or 'Pilar' which serves as a historical marker for the city of Salamanca.
The Puente Romano de Salamanca, also known as the Puente Mayor del Tormes, is a Roman-era stone bridge spanning the Tormes River. It originally formed part of the Vía de la Plata, a critical Roman trade and military route connecting Mérida and Astorga. The bridge consists of 26 arches, though only 15 of these date back to the original 1st-century construction. Significant reconstructions occurred in the 16th and 17th centuries following floods that damaged the structure. Two distinct types of stone masonry are visible, reflecting the original Roman work and subsequent medieval repairs. The bridge was declared a National Monument in 1931. It currently serves as a pedestrian-only crossing, connecting the city center to the southern banks of the river. A stone bull sculpture, the Verraco de piedra, stands at the entrance, originating from the pre-Roman Vetton culture.
From the riverbanks on the southern side looking back toward the city skyline.
Walk the entire length to view the different masonry styles used in Roman vs. medieval arch repairs.
Visit the riverbank park area directly below the bridge for a different perspective of the arches.
Combine your walk with a visit to the nearby Huerto de Calixto y Melibea.
Do not expect vehicle access, as it is strictly a pedestrian walkway.
