Silves’ old bridge is in the process of being named a “monument of public interest” by the Portuguese government.
The bid was published in the government’s newspaper Diário da República last month and the town council says it is only a matter of time before the bridge is officially recognised.
Though often referred to as Silves’ “Roman bridge,” its origin is debatable as most records indicate it was built in the 14th century.
Having undergone several renovations over the centuries, the 76m-long bridge currently links the north and south banks of river Arade and is closed off to traffic.
It is undoubtedly one of Silves’ main landmarks, along with its castle and cork museum.
