The Millau Bridge in France, designed by British architect Norman Foster, stands at 1,104 feet high, making it the world's tallest bridge. Its roadway is positioned so high that a skyscraper could fit beneath it.
Design and Safety Features
According to Enjoy Travel, the bridge incorporates several clever engineering secrets to ensure driver safety. Unlike many bridges, it is neither straight nor flat. It has a 3% incline and a gentle curve spanning 20 kilometers. Enjoy Travel explained: "It has two lanes in each direction and interestingly, the bridge is not straight as this could induce a sensation of floating for drivers. To remedy this, the architects designed the bridge to have a slight curve." The incline improves visibility and reassures drivers.
The bridge is exposed to high winds of up to 151 km/h. Designers placed side screens that reduce the wind's effects by 50%.
Tourist Attraction
Since opening in the early 2000s, the Millau Bridge has become a destination for motoring enthusiasts and tourists. On TripAdvisor, Simon N said: "An amazing piece of engineering and architecture spanning an even more beautiful gorge. If you're an engineering/architecture enthusiast, this is a must-see." Bluebellplasnewydd added: "This bridge is spectacular and you should plan your car journey to go over it." Boruthedog noted: "The bridge is cleverly curved so that you get a good feel for its length and can clearly see its pylons and supporting cables."
Key Facts
- Height: 1,104 feet (world's tallest)
- Location: Aveyron district, France, on the motorway linking Paris to the Mediterranean
- Designer: British architect Norman Foster
- Opened: Early 2000s
- Incline: 3%
- Curve radius: 20 km
- Wind screens reduce wind effects by 50%
