An approach to the construction history of the first generation of suspension bridges built in Spain under the monarchy of Isabel II (1833-1868): the case of the bridge over the Jarama in Arganda

Abstract

The Public Works in Spain under the reign of the queen Isabel II were strongly promoted, including the development of the main roads that communicated Madrid with the capitals of more important provinces. In many of them, it was necessary to replace the wooden bridges or steps of boats by stable passages that allowed transit. With that purpose, the Dirección General de Caminos (the public office in charge of these works), contacted Jules Seguin, a French engineer of great reputation in the construction of hanging bridges, for the construction of four bridges of these characteristics, one of them the bridge over the Jarama in the town of Arganda. This article traces the constructive history of this Public Work inaugurated in 1843 and lasted until 1905, when was demolished and replaced by a fixed bridge.