The bridges spanning the Douro River between Porto and Gaia constitute an iconic and integral part of the region's landscape. Each bridge embodies historical and architectural significance, contributing to the cultural identity of both cities. There are a total of 6 bridges connecting Porto and Gaia across the Douro River, listed from east to west: Freixo Bridge, São João Bridge, Maria Pia Bridge, Infante D. Henrique Bridge, Luís I Bridge, and Arrábida Bridge, each with its own unique identity.

The new bridge is situated between the Freixo and São João bridges, named after Bishop D. António Francisco dos Santos, elevating the deck to nearly 18m, higher than the lower deck of the Luís I Bridge but less than half the height of the Freixo Bridge. Spanning approximately 300m between the banks, it connects Av. Paiva Couceiro in the Municipality of Porto to a new road infrastructure in the Municipality of Vila Nova de Gaia, with a link to the current Rotunda Gil Eanes.

The north bank of the Douro River presents a timeless "landscape continuum," from the geometric patterns of the supporting walls and the solidity of the densely constructed city (gradually diminishing towards the east) to the closely interwoven terraces following the contours, vital for the cultivation and production of "Port wine." This holistic landscape embodies a transition from geometric to organic forms, highlighting the beauty of a landscape continuum that unites diversity, bridged by connections from north to south and from coast to interior. The project aims to celebrate this marvelous "landscape whole," with the design of the proposed bridge playing a pivotal role.

THE BRIDGE: BETWEEN THE QUAY AND THE SLOPE

The project aims to preserve the existing treatment on the slope of the north bank, complementing it with new elements introduced by the new bridge, the elevated roundabout, access points, waterfront layout, and constraints outlined in the competition program.

The demolition of the filling station up to its preserved rear wall liberates the central open space of the roundabout, allowing for the dense planting of large trees, emerging concerning the bridge's level. This verdant expanse will extend westward and eastward between the quay, the waterfront road, bridge access points, and the terraces enclosed by current retaining walls and the factory wall. Future expansion of this greenery north of the waterfront and the roundabout is essential, beyond the current intervention limit. These green areas will serve as a maintenance route along the Douro River and its banks. Urban amenities will be strategically placed within the expansive green space and competition area, including a cafeteria, reading room, or other public services, avoiding intrusion into the roundabout's open space, a vital green area of significant landscape importance. Recreational activities will focus on designated equipment and pedestrian paths, enriching the wooded area of the roundabout. The proposed tree planting in this distinctive space will stand as a final landmark along the bridge's route and its access points, contributing as an environmental asset.