Dom Luís I Bridge connects Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia with a two-level metal arch over the Douro River.
The bridge opened in 1886 and was designed by Théophile Seyrig, a former collaborator of Gustave Eiffel. Its large double-hinged arch supports two decks, creating a distinctive profile in Porto’s historic riverfront landscape.
The upper deck originally carried road traffic and now carries the Porto Metro’s D Line. The lower deck carries road traffic, while pedestrians can use walkways on both levels. The bridge replaced the nearby Maria Pia Bridge for some transport functions.
A common mix-up is attributing the design to Eiffel himself. Eiffel designed the Maria Pia Bridge, which opened in 1877, while Seyrig designed Dom Luís I Bridge. Both are major metal bridges associated with Porto’s industrial-era expansion.