Vasco da Gama Bridge

The Vasco da Gama Bridge, or Ponte Vasco do Gama, spans the Tagus River, linking Lisbon’s modern Parque das Nações district with Montijo. It holds the title of Europe’s longest bridge, stretching 17.2 km. Construction commenced in 1995, funded entirely by a private company at a cost of approximately 900 million euros. The project was a collaborative effort, with 3,300 workers dedicating three years to its completion, although tragically, 11 lives were lost in a 1997 accident.

The bridge’s design enables it to withstand wind speeds of up to 250 km/h and powerful earthquakes while minimizing disruption to wintering flamingos and ducks in the Tagus River’s ecosystem.

It earned three entries in the Guinness Book of Records when it was commissioned in 1998 to commemorate Vasco da Gama’s 500th anniversary, including hosting a feast for 15,000 people at a 5,050-meter-long table, featuring the world’s largest Feijoada stew. To traverse the bridge, you’ll require a taxi or your own vehicle.

Moreover, beneath the bridge lies a beautiful green park with walking alleys, lawns, bike paths, skate spots, and numerous cafes, providing an experience akin to a cableway trip.

Certainly, here are some key facts about the Vasco da Gama Bridge:

1. Location: The Vasco da Gama Bridge is in Lisbon, Portugal, spanning the Tagus River.
2. Length: It’s Europe’s longest bridge, at around 17.2 kilometers (10.7 miles).
3. Construction: Built in just three years, starting in 1995.
4. Funding: A private company fully funded the project without national budget contributions.
5. Cost: Approximately 900 million euros.
6. Workers: About 3,300 workers participated in construction.
7. Tragedy: Sadly, 11 lives were lost in a 1997 construction accident.
8. Strength: Designed to endure winds up to 250 km/h and strong earthquakes.
9. Environmental Considerations: Lighting minimizes disruption to the Tagus River’s ecosystem.
10. Commissioning: It was commissioned in 1998 to mark Vasco da Gama’s 500th anniversary.
11. Guinness World Records: Achieved three entries, including the world’s largest Feijoada stew and a massive 5,050-meter-long table.
12. Access: You can cross it by taxi or in your own vehicle.