Declared an Asset of Cultural Interest in 1996, it is the oldest bridge in Madrid, which led over the Manzanares to the Segovia road, one of the main accesses to the capital. Its construction began in 1574, according to Philip II's Provision, and is in charge of the Senior Master of Works of His Majesty, Gaspar de Vega, who made the plans and established the execution conditions.
Upon the architect's death in 1577, with the bridge in its foundations, Juan de Herrera took charge of the works, making new designs. It changes the medieval layout and designs the first modern bridge: the grade becomes horizontal. The bridge is formed by nine eyes in a semicircular arch and built with padded granite ashlars.
The bridge has undergone various repairs throughout its history with the intervention of notable architects at the service of the Town. Between 1935 and 1943 they were ordered by the Access and Surroundings Cabinet, and after the Civil War by the Public Works Headquarters. On behalf of this, engineer Vicente Olmos expands the width of the deck from 8.65 to 31 meters, dividing the bridge in two and opening it.
For the canalization of the Manzanares, the same engineer restored the original elevations between 1955 and 1960, unearthing pillars and adding new lateral mouths with their basins. Affected by the route of the M-30 in 1985, the architects Pérez-Aciego and Quesada carried out works to remodel the entrances and sides.
With the creation of Madrid Río, action has been taken around the bridge, providing it with accompanying fountains, ponds and walks in accordance with the aesthetics and new design of the area.