A bridge claimed to be the world’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge has opened in northern Portugal, spanning 516 metres and hanging 175 metres above the River Paiva. Located in the Arouca Geopark, a UNESCO-recognised site, the structure is expected to boost tourism in a region hit hard by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Before Sunday’s official opening ceremony, local residents were allowed to walk across the bridge’s see-through metal grids. Hugo Xavier was the first to cross, describing it as “extraordinary, a unique experience, an adrenaline rush.” Another resident, Rui Brandao, said he avoided looking down but still recommended the experience, even for those with vertigo.
Arouca’s mayor, Margarida Belem, said the bridge, which took around two years to build, is a “fundamental attraction” for the region. Local tour guide Emanuel added that it would bring “a new dynamic” to Arouca, which has an ageing population as many young people move to cities.
The bridge, named “Arouca 516”, crosses the steep Paiva River gorge, which already features 8km of wooden walkways. While it is claimed to be the world’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge, a counter-claim exists for the Baglung Parbat bridge in Nepal, which is longer but of a different type.
