Roman Bridge of Cangas de Onís: how to get there, legend...

Roman bridge of Cangas de Onís on the map

See on the map Roman bridge of Cangas de Onís

Latitude: 43.3501778 Length: -5.1320076
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If there's one place in Asturias that exudes history, it's the Roman Bridge of Cangas de Onís, or, as it's popularly known, El Puentón. Its robust and elegant silhouette rises above the Sella River, connecting the municipalities of Cangas de Onís and Parres , and for centuries it has been a must-see for anyone wishing to immerse themselves in the purest essence of Asturias. Although its name might be misleading, this bridge is not Roman, but medieval , built during the reign of King Alfonso XI of Castile in the 14th century . However, its location is not accidental: it occupies the site of a former Roman bridge, part of the road that connected Lucus Asturum (present-day Lugo de Llanera) with Portus Victoriae (now Santander).

A medieval bridge with a Roman soul

The bridge's current structure, despite its Roman name, is Gothic in style. It consists of three arches of unequal size, the central pointed arch being particularly noteworthy , giving the bridge its majestic and distinctive appearance. Its function has always been strategic: travelers, merchants, and armies have all crossed it , perhaps even the first Christian warriors who, led by Pelayo, ignited the spark of the Reconquista in Covadonga, just a few kilometers away.

Throughout its history, the bridge has undergone several restorations. The most significant took place in 1876, when the municipality of Cangas de Onís carried out extensive repairs, commemorating the work with a plaque. In the 20th century, following the Spanish Civil War, the bridge was restored again between 1940 and 1943 under the direction of architect Luis Menéndez-Pidal y Álvarez , who also worked on the conservation of other Asturian monuments.

The Victoria Cross: a pendant emblem

One of the bridge's most iconic features is the large Cross of Victory that hangs from its central arch . This cross, an undisputed symbol of Asturias, was placed there in 1939, coinciding with the return to Spain of the image of La Santina (Virgin of Covadonga), which had been evacuated to Paris during the Civil War. Since then, the cross has presided over this river crossing as a symbol of Asturian identity.

Curiosities of the Roman Bridge of Cangas de Onís

1· A seven-arch bridge
The original bridge did not have just the three arches we see today, but seven arches.Over the centuries, floods and restorations reduced its structure to its present form. Some of the stones from those old arches were reused in other parts of the bridge.

2· What is your height?
Gastric 21 meters.

3· How old is the bridge?
Although the bridge we know today is medieval, it is believed that Its Roman predecessor was used by the Muslim army advancing towards Covadonga in 718, led by General Alkama. According to legend, it was along these roads that Don Pelayo and his men managed to stop the invasion.

4. An improvised “triumphal arch”
In 1939, When the Virgin of Covadonga returned from exile in Paris, the bridge was decorated with flags and flowers. In addition, a a temporary triumphal arch on the new part of the bridge to receive the image of La Santina with all the honors.

5. A key spot for salmon fishing
The Sella River is famous for being one of the best places in Spain for salmon fishingAt the foot of the bridge, it's common to see fishermen patiently waiting to catch a good specimen. In fact, the bridge area has witnessed the capture of record-breaking Atlantic salmon.

6. The Roman Bridge forms part of the coat of arms of Cangas de Onís , along with the cross above the inverted crescent moon, alluding to the Christian victory over the Muslims at Covadonga. Below these symbols is the Latin inscription: Minima urbium, maxima sedium (The smallest of cities, the greatest of seats), recalling Cangas' glorious past as the first capital of the Kingdom of Asturias.

How to get to the Roman Bridge

Access to the Roman Bridge is easy, as it is located right in the center of Cangas de Onís . There are regular bus connections from Oviedo and Gijón, stopping at the Cangas de Onís bus station.

For those wishing to complete their visit, the Sanctuary of Covadonga , with its imposing basilica and the Holy Cave, where the image of the Virgin of Covadonga rests, is just a few kilometers away. From the bridge, hiking trails can also be set off through the Picos de Europa mountains, a natural environment of unparalleled beauty.