Pont romà de la Roqueta

Pont romà de la Roqueta is a stone bridge in the municipality of Fontanilles, in the Baix Empordà region of Catalonia, listed in the Inventory of Architectural Heritage of Catalonia. Despite its name suggesting Roman origins, it is one of those local landmarks where history and legend intertwine, and where the true age of the structure still puzzles researchers.

Where is the bridge located?

The bridge stands on the edge of Llabià, a small settlement within the municipality of Fontanilles, in the heart of Baix Empordà, close to the site of the former Ullastret lake, drained in the 19th century. It spans a now-dry streambed that once fed that lake, and a small spring sits right next to the structure, forming part of the site today.

What is the history behind it?

The Pont de la Roqueta once stood on the old road leading to Ullastret, known as the Camí d'Empúries — a route that connected the surrounding countryside with the ancient city of Empúries, one of the most significant Greek and Roman settlements on the Costa Brava coast. The bridge's name reflects that Roman-era route. Researchers, however, point out that the structure in its current form most likely dates from the early Middle Ages. It is not ruled out that it was built on the foundations of, or incorporating elements from, an earlier construction — possibly Roman — though no conclusive evidence confirms this.

How is the bridge built?

It is a small, single-arch structure with a stone vault laid in regular courses, a technique typical of rural bridges in this part of Catalonia. Its simple, functional form reflects its original purpose: crossing a seasonal watercourse, not making a grand architectural statement.

What condition is it in today?

The bridge's state of conservation is described as very poor. The lack of regular upkeep and the passage of time have taken their toll on the stonework, particularly around the vault. Even so, it still stands on its original site and remains a tangible trace of the ancient route linking inland Empordà with the coast.

Why is it worth a visit?

The Pont de la Roqueta appeals to travellers exploring Baix Empordà who want something beyond beaches and headline attractions — an authentic, little-publicised site where the layers of the region's history come together: from ancient Empúries, through medieval settlement, to the vanished Ullastret lake. It also makes a good excuse for a quiet walk through the rural landscape around Fontanilles, away from the coastal crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the name "romà" mean the bridge is actually Roman? The name refers to the old Roman road to Ullastret on which the bridge stands. The structure in its present form, however, most likely dates from the early Middle Ages, although it may incorporate older, possibly Roman, elements.

How do you get to the bridge? It is located next to the village of Llabià, within the municipality of Fontanilles, in the Baix Empordà region, near the site of the former, now-drained Ullastret lake.

Can visitors access the bridge? Yes, it stands in the open countryside and is freely accessible, though given its poor state of conservation, visitors should approach it carefully and with respect for the historic structure.

What else is worth seeing nearby? Close by, in the municipality of Ullastret, lies the well-known Iberian settlement of Puig de Sant Andreu, and the wider area is rich in traces of ancient settlement connected to nearby Empúries.