Borders shut between Spain and Portugal for Pope's visit

The frontier between the province of Pontevedra in the north-western region of Galicia will only be accessible via the international bridge and, for pedestrians, bicycles and motorbikes, the old Tui-Valença bridge, until midnight on Saturday.

Passport control – normally absent as Spain and Portugal are within the Schengen zone – will be reinstated temporarily in these areas.

The Goián-Vilanova de Cerveira, the Salvaterra do Miño-Monção and the Arbo-Melgaço routes will remain shut for four days.

Authorities in both countries have warned that anyone planning to cross over into Portugal from Spain or vice versa this week must remember to bring their passport or, in the case of Spanish nationals, their DNI or national ID card, and to allow plenty of extra time.

Drivers should ensure all vehicle documentation is carried in their cars, and DNIs or passports must also be carried by all under-18s.

Pope Francisco will travel to Portugal this week to visit the Sanctuary on Friday, marking the centenary of the apparition of the Virgin in the area.

Around 30,000 pilgrims will be waiting for him in Fátima.