The Dom Luís bridge

If we were to draw a skyline of Porto, then this iconic landmark would, without any doubt, be part of it. Framed by this breathtaking scenery, you can spot the Dom Luís Bridge, a metal structure connecting the heart of Porto to the Vila Nova de Gaia wine cellars. Built between 1881 and 1888 by engineer Teofilo Seyrig, this steel giant spans 395 metres in length and 8 metres in width.

His name is probably unfamiliar to you, but know that he was once Gustave Eiffel’s partner, yes, the one from the Eiffel tower in Paris. The bridge’s double-arch aspect allows any type of passenger to pass, whether that is by foot, by car or by tramway. Named after King Luís I, there’s an interesting story behind the bridge’s inscription.

Invited to the bridge’s inauguration, the king finally never showed up, offending locals. In response, they omitted the title “Dom” from the panel that now only displays “Luís I” . A detail that would finally never be corrected.

Dismissed by royalty, this bridge has since become a UNESCO site, recognized in 1996.