1. Portugal’s Ponte Dom Luis I
Situated in Portugal’s Porto
Founded in 1886
Expense: $2 million
This double-decker iron bridge crosses the Douro River to link the ancient neighborhoods of Vila Nova de Gaia and Porto. It was built in 1886 at an estimated cost of $2 million. The bridge, which was created by the well-known Belgian engineer Théophile Seyrig, has two levels: one for cars and another for pedestrians and trams. From each level, there are expansive views of the river and the city skyline.
Portugal’s Dom Luis I Ponte ©Deensel – Dom Luís I Bridge / Commonswikipedia
Known by many as “The Double-Decker,” it has come to represent the metropolitan allure and rich cultural legacy of Porto. At the time of its construction, the Ponte Dom Luis I was the longest iron arch bridge in the world, demonstrating Portugal’s technological and engineering superiority throughout the Industrial Revolution.
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