Photo courtesy: ponte516arouca
The 516 Arouca bridge was until recently the largest pedestrian suspension bridge in the world and is located in Arouca, in the Aveiro district, Portugal. With 516 meters in length, and an elevation of 175 meters, it connects the banks of the Paiva River. While crossing the bridge, you will have a breathtaking view over Garganta do Paiva and Cascata das Aguieiras, both geosites of the UNESCO Arouca Geopark territory.
Photo courtesy: ponte516arouca
Two huge V-shaped towers at either end holds up the heavy steel cables of the bridge which has a deck consisting of three feet wide hot dip galvanized grid pathway with rigid netting along the side. According to local reports, the construction was inspired by the Inca bridges found in the Andes mountain valleys. Visitors will have to buy tickets to walk across the bridge.
Photo courtesy: ponte516arouca
Much more than a bridge, it is a true work of art. For this reason, the bridge is attracting a lot of attention, not only from those who want to experience walking across it and to see the views of the surrounding area but also by those who acknowledge that it is an impressive piece of engineering and construction, an ambitious project that has been a complete success.
Photo courtesy: ponte516arouca
About the Author:
Bruno Dursin – Managing Director at Believe in Steel. Bruno has more than 30 years of experience in promoting steel & steel solutions. His clients benefit from his extensive network within the building industry.
