Description of the attraction
In the western part of Toledo, you can see the majestic medieval Puente de San Martin bridge connecting the banks of the Tagus River. The exact date of its construction is unknown, there is information that in the 12th century the bridge was destroyed by a severe flood that occurred in this area. At the end of the 14th century, the bridge was rebuilt with funds from Archbishop Pedro Tenorio in order to provide access to the old city from the west, in addition to the other, previously built Puente de Alcantara.
The bridge was built in the Gothic style and is a massive structure with partly preserved original stonework. On one side of the bridge, there is a defense crenellated tower built in the 13th century. A little later, in the 16th century, the bridge was fortified, completing on the other side of it a second powerful defensive hexagonal tower, also crowned with battlements. The tower is decorated with images of the coat of arms and shield of Emperor Charles V. These towers are associated with the legend of the beautiful girl Florina, who fell in love with the Visigoth king Rodrigo. Also, the towers figure in many tales that were composed by local residents.
The Puente de San Martin Bridge rests on five pointed arches lined with stone, which reach a height of 40 meters. Very few arched bridges in the world can boast of this size. The bridge offers a beautiful view of the city and its surroundings. In 1921, the Puente de San Martin Bridge was declared a National Landmark.
