Survey Data

Reg No

30405305


Rating

Regional


Categories of Special Interest

Architectural, Social, Technical


Previous Name

Leam Bridge


Original Use

Bridge


In Use As

Bridge


Date

1780 - 1820


Coordinates

105463, 242796


Date Recorded

03/09/2008


Date Updated

--/--/--


Description

Double-arch hump-back rubble-stone road bridge, built c.1800. irregular arches, larger being to south end, roundish to east elevation and more pointed to west, and smaller north arch being cambered to west and pointed round to east. Rubble-abutments and river pier, latter having remains of pointed cut-water. Voussoirs and keystones to arches and partially rendered rubble stone soffits. Rubble-stone parapet walls, with recent rubble-stone repair work to pier and abutments.

Appraisal

This unique bridge which sits in a picturesque landscape makes an important contribution to the architectural heritage of West Galway. Dating from the late eighteenth century, its good state of preservation attests to the craftsmanship of the builders who used only locally available stone during the construction. The location of the bridge at the end of Lough Adrehid affords excellent views of the surrounding mountains whilst the irregularity and rubble-stone construction distinguishes this bridge from others in the area. The bridge is also a famous tourist attraction as it is known as the 'Quiet Man Bridge' where the famous 1950s film 'The Quiet Man' was filmed.