The Vasco da Gama Bridge is a remarkable feat of engineering that spans the Tagus River in Lisbon, Portugal. Inaugurated in 1998, the bridge was constructed to alleviate traffic congestion on the existing 25 de Abril Bridge and to accommodate the influx of visitors for the Expo ’98 World’s Fair.

At the time of its completion, the Vasco da Gama Bridge was the longest bridge in Europe, stretching an impressive 17.2 km (10.7 miles) across the Tagus River estuary. The structure consists of a cable-stayed main span with approach viaducts on both ends, allowing for the passage of large ships underneath.

One of the most unique aspects of the bridge is its ability to withstand extreme weather conditions and seismic activity. Designed to resist winds of up to 250 km/h (155 mph) and earthquakes 4.5 times greater than the standards of building resistance in Lisbon, the bridge features flexible piers with foundations penetrating 95 m (312 ft) below sea level.

This ensures that the structure can safely accommodate the movement of the earth’s crust in the event of a major earthquake.

The bridge’s construction was a massive undertaking, requiring up to 3,300 workers simultaneously and taking 18 months of preparation and 18 months of construction.

The project was split into four parts, each built by a different company and supervised by an independent consortium.

The Vasco da Gama Bridge is not only an engineering marvel but also a symbol of Portugal’s progress and modernity. Named after the famous Portuguese explorer who discovered the sea route to India in 1498, the bridge commemorates the 500th anniversary of this historic event.

Today, the Vasco da Gama Bridge continues to serve as a vital transportation link between the northern and southern regions of Portugal, reducing travel time and easing traffic congestion in Lisbon.

Its unique design and impressive dimensions make it a must-see attraction for visitors to the city, offering stunning views of the Tagus River and the surrounding landscape.