The 25 de Abril Bridge is a suspension bridge that spans the Tagus River in Lisbon, Portugal. It is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city and is often compared to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco due to its similar design. The bridge was originally named the Salazar Bridge after the Portuguese dictator who commissioned its construction in the 1960s, but it was renamed in 1974 after the Carnation Revolution that overthrew the regime.
The bridge is over 2.2 kilometers long and has a total of six lanes for traffic, as well as two pedestrian walkways. It is supported by two massive towers that rise 190 meters above the water, making it one of the tallest structures in Portugal. The towers are connected by a series of cables that hold up the roadway, which hangs 70 meters above the river at its highest point.
The 25 de Abril Bridge is not only a functional transportation route, but it is also a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can walk or cycle across the bridge on the pedestrian walkways, which offer stunning views of the city and the river below. At night, the bridge is illuminated with colorful lights that create a beautiful spectacle against the dark sky.
Overall, the 25 de Abril Bridge is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Lisbon. Its impressive size and design make it a true engineering marvel, and its history as a symbol of Portugal's transition to democracy adds to its cultural significance.
