Medieval entrance to Valderrobres

This majestic architectural ensemble provides a spectacular and iconic entrance to the old quarter of Valderrobres, inviting visitors on a journey through time.

The construction of the bridge is intrinsically linked to the building of Valderrobres' imposing walls. It is estimated that these works began around 1390, at the request of Archbishop García Fernández de Heredia to King Juan I el Cazador. Although the exact completion date of the bridge is not known with certainty, it was likely finished in the early 15th century, under the direction of Dalmau de Mur, who also oversaw major improvements to the upper sections of the town's celebrated castle.

The bridge, with its pronounced medieval style, is a robust and functional feat of engineering. It consists of four arches and is notable for its impressive wedge-shaped cutwaters. These architectural elements were ingeniously designed to protect the structure from floods on the Matarraña River and to prevent the accumulation of logs and debris during high water, demonstrating the foresight of its builders.

An interesting detail is that in the 16th century, the town hall of Valderrobres was established in its final section. This modification slightly altered the bridge's final appearance by connecting it directly to the main square, integrating it even further into the civic life of the town.

The bridge leads directly to the old main entrance to the walled precinct. In the late 16th century, this portal took its current name, being dedicated to San Roque, patron of the town and protector invoked against the epidemics that plagued the era. Today, the Portal de San Roque is not only a symbol of Valderrobres' historical resilience but is also recognised as one of the best-preserved town gates in the entire historic ensemble of the town, offering an unrivalled view of its medieval past.

The tower-gate of San Roque provides the entrance to the town of Valderrobres and formed part of the old walled precinct that surrounded the settlement.

It takes the form of a keep, topped by a battlemented terrace. It is built entirely in ashlar masonry. On the outside it has a large round arch and on the inside it is defined by a very flat arch (practically a lintel). Both arches are possibly contemporary with the walling of the town: 13th and 14th centuries. The rest of the construction must have been carried out later: the date 1611 is recorded.