And here I am back in my beloved Spain! I have been coming here for years , initially as a stopping point between my trips from France to Spain over Somport and Portalet; then we visit the city and even spent vacation time around the area. This is Jaca right facing the Pyrénées mountains! As you might know Spain is the No 2 most visited country in the world according to official tallies of the UN-WTO.
I have written several posts on it ,but feel some is missing and I am trying to remedy this ommission of this wonderful quant city of Aragon. Let me tell you a bit more of Jaca on the Puente de San Miguel or St Michael’s bridge.
This is the area behind the Paseo de la Constitucion, that takes you to the Puente de San Miguel or bridge in the back.
The Puente de San Miguel is one of the few medieval bridges that are preserved in the Aragonese Pyrenees and due to its monumentality, strategic location and good state of conservation, it turns out to be one of the most significant hydraulic works in Alto Aragón. Despite the fact that the exact date of its construction is unknown, it is generally accepted that, due to its appearance and structure, the bridge is from the low medieval period c 15C, although some authors propose to advance its chronology.
The introduction of the pointed arch brought more geometric possibilities to the medieval builder compared to his Roman predecessors. The geometric flexibility of the ogival shape means that the vaults can start from the same base as the pilasters, which provides a very important improvement in their stability. The bridge has an asymmetric elevation, since it directly supports the highest and most solid right bank, while on the left, lower, it rests directly on the river terrace itself. It shows a double-sided profile, typical of medieval bridges, and a pointed central arch, with a masonry thread, which saves the main channel. Two other smaller arches function as spillways, in case of avenues. Its structure is reinforced by two cutwaters located between the arches. The San Miguel bridge is 96 meters long and the arrow of its main bow reaches 17 meters. The vault has a masonry thread with cleanly oriented segments and is completed with two smaller arches and cut holes between them. The set is finished with a soft donkey back.
Translation of the city of Jaca in Spanish of Puente de San Miguel here: City of Jaca on Puente de San Miguel
I must say the views from the bridge are spectacular especially on a clear day seeing all the way to the Pyrénées mountains. It should be very romantic at night…. Hope you enjoy the brief introduction to the Puente de San Miguel bridge of Jaca.
As usual by me for easy reference some webpages to help you plan your trip here are
The Jaca tourist office: Jaca tourist office
Huesca Province tourist office in Spanish: Huesca province tourist office
Aragon region tourist office: Aragon tourist office
And remember, happy travels, good health, and many cheers to all!!!
Paris1972-Versailles2003 