Ucanha Bridge Tower

The Ucanha Bridge Tower, locally known as Ponte e Torre Fortificada de Ucanha, stands in the village of Ucanha in the Douro region in Portugal.

The bridge and tower are a rare example of a fortified toll bridge that combines defensive, residential, and fiscal functions, a unique feature in Portugal. The bridge, consisting of 5 arches and spanning the River Varosa, likely dates back to Roman times. It was first mentioned in 1163, when King Afonso I donated the area to Teresa Afonso, the widow of King Afonso I's tutor, Egas Moniz. She then donated the bridge and surrounding lands to the newly founded Monastery of Santa Maria de Salzedas.

The fortified tower, standing at the western end of the bridge, was added later, likely in the 13th or 14th century, during the reign of King Denis (1279–1325). Its purpose was both to control access and to collect tolls from travelers and merchants using the bridge. Located between Lamego and the Douro Valley, in a feudal world where river crossings were scarce, it became an important source of income for the Cistercian monks of the monastery.

In 1504, King Manuel I abolished the right of the monks to charge tolls, ending the bridge’s fiscal function, but the structure continued to be used for local traffic.

The square tower, approximately 15 meters tall, is constructed from well-cut granite blocks and features crenellations along its parapet. Its entrance door, raised above the bridge level, could be closed with a heavy wooden gate, and narrow openings allowed for surveillance of the river and road. Inside, two floors connected by wooden stairs provided living quarters for toll collectors.

Today, the Ucanha Bridge Tower is open to the public during office hours. Inside, there is a small exhibition area. A nice tower with a beautiful bridge.

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