Sampaio Bridge

Sampaio Bridge

This legendary bridge spanning the River Verdugo was the scene of a crucial battle during the War of Independence against France.

In Roman times, there was already a bridge spanning the river, and the medieval bridge – first recorded in the 10th century – was built on its foundations. From then on, it was a key strategic point and the scene of several battles for control of the area. But the most significant event took place between 7 and 9 June 1809. During those days, the legendary Battle of Ponte Sampaio was fought between the powerful Napoleonic troops under the command of Marshal Ney and Spanish troops and Galician guerrillas who defended the bridge against a vastly superior force. Having failed to capture the bridge, the French were forced to retreat with heavy casualties and subsequently to abandon Galicia. Today, the bridge consists of 10 pointed arches reinforced with thick buttresses and is 144 metres long.