The Puente Piedra or Stone Bridge is a 600-year-old bridge that extends across the Ebro River in Zaragoza for 738 feet (225 meters). The ancient crossing was constructed between 1401 and 1440 although parts of it date back to 17th-century reconstructions. It is also known as the Bridge of Lions after bronze lion statues were added to both entrances in 1991. When you visit the Puente Piedra, go for a stroll across the bridge to see its monuments and river and city views.
Start your walk at the bridge entrance near the Cathedral-Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar. Cast your gaze upward at the lion statues on top of two tall pillars. The bridge is open to public transportation, taxis and cyclists as well as pedestrians so be attentive to traffic when crossing.
During your walk pause to enjoy views of the river and the city, which are particularly impressive at night especially those that take in the cathedral. This Roman Catholic church is an even more striking sight when it’s bathed in light.
Stop by the Cruz de Basilio. This monument commemorates three martyrs of the Spanish War of Independence who died on the bridge. The Baron de Warsage was mortally wounded by a cannonball in 1808 while Basilio Boggiero and Santiago Sas were executed by bayonets a year later and their bodies were thrown into the river.
Visit the bridge’s other monument which was erected in 2013 to commemorate the bicentenary of the liberation of the city at the end of the Peninsular War. This is another name for the Spanish War of Independence.
From the bridge look down to the left bank of the river to see the San Lazaro parapet. This retaining wall was constructed in just six months in 1789 and went from the bridge to the Convent of San Lazaro which no longer exists. It was designed to protect the city from flooding.
When you reach the other side of Puente Piedra, explore the Arrabal neighborhood. Among its highlights are the Tio Jorge Park and the late 19th-century Church of Our Lady of Altabás.