Puente Viejo

Av. Río Segura • 30550 ABARÁN

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History, Engineering, and Landscapes Along the Segura River

A Symbol of Abarán’s Heritage

The Old Bridge of Abarán is one of the municipality’s most representative historic monuments and a true gem of civil engineering linked to the Segura River. Built in 1883, this bridge is one of the oldest heritage elements in Abarán and, since 2008, has held the status of a Site of Cultural Interest (BIC), with the category of Monument, in recognition of its historical and architectural importance. For more than a century, until the construction of the New Bridge in 1985, it was the only crossing that connected the town centre of Abarán with the right bank of the Segura River, playing a fundamental role in communication routes and in the daily life of the municipality’s inhabitants.

A Place with Centuries of History

The area where the Old Bridge stands, formerly known as “La Cuna”, had already been a strategic crossing point over the river for centuries. This name referred to the primitive system used to cross the Segura: a simple suspended footbridge made of esparto ropes and wooden planks, a solution adapted to the needs of the population and the characteristics of the river. The importance of this location is reflected in historical records from 1838, which document the existence of a wooden bridge built on three stone pillars. However, a major flood destroyed this structure that same year, and it was later replaced by a temporary wooden bridge located upstream, at the point where the river waters divided into two channels. For several decades, successive floods forced the constant reconstruction and repair of this crossing until, in 1881, permission was finally granted to build a new iron bridge along the original route, giving rise to the current Old Bridge.

An Engineering Landmark Beside the Segura River

The Old Bridge represents the evolution of communication infrastructures at the end of the 19th century and is an example of how engineering was adapted to the natural landscape. Its metal structure and its integration with the riverside environment make it a unique element within Abarán’s heritage. Beyond its practical function, the bridge is part of the collective memory of the municipality. For generations, it has been a meeting point, a passageway, and a connection route, standing as a silent witness to the transformation of Abarán and the historic relationship between its inhabitants and the Segura River.

A Walk Through Abarán’s History

Visiting the Old Bridge means approaching one of the municipality’s most valuable historic and scenic locations. Its riverside setting allows visitors to enjoy a pleasant walk where heritage, nature, and landscape come together in a charming environment. The bridge offers an excellent opportunity to discover the importance of water in Abarán’s history, admire the scenery of the Segura River, and explore a fundamental piece of the town’s cultural heritage.

A Must-See for Heritage Lovers

The Old Bridge is much more than an old infrastructure: it is a symbol of Abarán’s identity and a place where history remains alive. Its architectural value, its past as the town’s main communication route, and its privileged location beside the river make it an essential visit for those wishing to discover the true essence of the municipality. A place where engineering, history, and landscape come together to offer visitors an authentic experience beside the Segura River.

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