The world’s longest walkway suspension bridge has been constructed in the Arouca Unesco Global Geopark in Portugal.
The 516 Arouca is a whopping 516 metres long and is suspended between two v-shaped structures 175 metres above the Paiva River canyon.
World’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge is opening in #Portugal https://t.co/OtFbh6UtB8 via @CNNTravel
516 Arouca, so called because it’s 516 meters long, in the town of Arouca and the latest adventure offering in the Arouca Geopark, known for its extreme sports. #516Arouca pic.twitter.com/P39NY3fvOX— Visit Portugal (@visitportugal) October 9, 2020
The see-through metal grid is designed to offer both stability and unobstructed views of the river and forest below.
The park, situated in northern Portugal is known for its exceptional geological heritage of international significance, with 41 geosites. According to Unesco, ‘Rocks that outcrop in this region tell stories of the ancient seas that bordered the supercontinent Gondwana 520 to 420 million years (Ma) ago and chronicle the formation of the next supercontinent called Pangea that formed 250 Ma ago.’
#Arouca Geopark https://t.co/gUut0SjiOj
The Geosite Route is recommended, an itinerary that runs through #Paiva River valley, following its course along 8 km. It’s worth spending a day exploring the Paiva #Walkways, for the landscapes and its geological and biological interest. pic.twitter.com/yXCKOO3LtF— Visit Portugal (@visitportugal) July 30, 2020
📍 Arouca Geopark #Portugal #travelling pic.twitter.com/yZBwvCUtEX
— Steph Marinkovic (@StephMarinkovic) March 11, 2019
Offering spectacular nature views, it will take a strolling pedestrian about 10 minutes to cross. The project kicked off in 2016 and is expected to open to the public in early 2021.
Take a look at the fascinating bridge:
Picture: Twitter/VisitPortugal
