Manterola Footbridge

The Manterola Footbridge (named by the architect Javier Manterola), or Footbridge of the Malecón as it is popularly known as, is a bridge in the centre of Murcia that passes over the Rio Segura.

It is a pedestrian bridge only, not like the adjacent bridges on which vehicles can drive. It is very new, it opened in 1997, constructed in a modern style and made of steel, although it is white in colour.

What stands out most on this bridge is the way it is constructed, with its bridge suspenders, slightly curved shape, and how it looks like a sailboat. It has a mast in the center which is 15 meters high, and also has 30 suspenders which serve to stop the walkway forming the shape of a semi circle. Because of these characteristics and the views is has from being in the centre of Murcia, with the Bridge of 'los peligros' and the cathedral's tower in sight, it is undoubtedly my favorite bridge of all those in Murcia.

Do not be alarmed if the footbridge trembles as you walk on it, this is normal, and you will notice it more if you stand still. Do not be alarmed if you see a rat run amongst the rocks in the river. There is a large mound of rocks in which there are usually several ducks, but several times I have seen a rat emerge from one of the holes between the rocks and go into another. In addition to the mound, there is a sort of artificial small island, on which there are also several ducks and swans.

In one of the entrances to the walkway, there is a sign which lists the names of the bird species found in this area: Heron, Common Coot, Bluegrass, Cisne Vulgar and White Heron. I love ducks, and it is one of the areas of Murcia where you can see many of them. Many people go there to feed them.

During the day, the bridge is beautiful, and you can appreciate the details on it, as well as the surroundings, but at night it is even more beautiful. As the bridge is white, when the lights are turned on, it contrasts a lot with the darkness of the sky, and in my opinion it is one of the best views in Murcia. Also, the views of the cathedral in the background are more striking at night, although this is just my persona; opinion.

In addition to the footbridge, this area is home to some well-preserved ruins, and belong to the 'Molinos del Plano de San Francisco' As you can see, on one of the sides of the bridge, there is a small kind of waterfall which serves the river and historically was in charge of maintaining the flow in order allow the passage of water to the mills.

It is a very beautiful and magical place, both to visit with your partner, and to show to people who come to visit Murcia, they will love it for sure!