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This architectural gem is popularly known as the Puente Colgante (Hanging Bridge) because of its structure, held up by taut cables, a feature of transporter bridges.
The purpose of this masterpiece of engineering was to connect the Portugalete and Getxo sides of the river Nervión without obstructing river traffic, linking the two towns with a gondola.
This dream in iron is certainly an essential stop if you're visiting the Basque Country. Want to know something about it before you visit us? We'll tell you all about it in the next few lines, so read on!
The Bizkaia bridge was the first iron-built transporter bridge in the world.
It was opened on 28th July 1893, and designed by Alberto Palacio y Elissague.
The Puente Colgante was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2006 as one of the finest constructions of the European industrial revolution and iron architecture. It was the first site in the Basque Country to earn this accolade.
This bridge offers the option of crossing the top walkway on foot, the ideal way to take in some panoramic views of the estuary.
You can also see the gondola mechanism close up. A 160-metre walk 50 metres up.
Would you dare to jump off a bridge? On the Bizkaia Bridge you can! You can climb up the structure of the bridge to the walkway and, from up there, jump from a height of nearly 50 metres.
What do you think is the best viewpoint to photograph the bridge? Here's a spoiler: you'll get the best photo from a boat known as Gasolino that crosses from one side of the estuary to the other. You'll get a stunning view of the bridge.
Come and find out more about our most famous bridge! And don't forget your camera!
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