Ponte do Raposo, an important link between Gramado and Caxias do Sul on the Caminhos de Caravaggio route, has been undergoing renovation since January 10 to improve the route. The work should take around 90 days. During this period, the bridge will be closed to pilgrims for safety reasons. They are advised to use a car or transfer to travel an alternative route and continue the rest of the way as usual.
The alternative route proposed for pilgrims is to complete the second stage of the Camino, then drive along RS-235 to Primazia Geriatria em Linha Brasil (Nova Petrópolis), turn right, cross Ponte do Pedancino to Santo Izidoro, turn right again and continue to Vila Oliva. The total route is 60.6 km, of which 20 km are dirt roads. From Vila Oliva, pilgrims can continue on foot through the remaining stages.
Initially, it was announced that the Path would remain open during the first phase of the work, from 20 to 30 days. However, a new assessment of the site by contract inspectors after work began determined that the area is unsafe for pedestrians. The city halls of Gramado and Caxias do Sul, responsible for the work, in agreement with the other municipalities on the Caminhos de Caravaggio route, prioritize safety. The closure will be temporary, only for the duration of the work, estimated at 90 days.
“The restoration of this bridge is essential for the safety of users and the preservation of this historical heritage. The alternative for this period was the best possible so that establishments such as inns and restaurants can continue to receive pilgrims”, says Ricardo Daneluz, Secretary of Tourism of Caxias.
The Tourism Departments of the five municipalities that make up the Route – Gramado, Canela, Nova Petrópolis, Caxias do Sul and Farroupilha – are available to provide additional information and clarifications. In Caxias, Semtur’s telephone number is (54) 3222.1875.
