17 Kilometers
Of History
Celebrating 28 Years of the Vasco da Gama Bridge
On March 29, 1998, Lisbon changed forever. Inaugurated in time for Expo ’98, the Vasco da Gama Bridge was not just a traffic solution; it was a symbol of Portuguese modernity. Today, we celebrate its 28th anniversary and reveal the secrets that make this structure one of the most fascinating in the world.
The Record-Breaking Lunch
The bridge’s history began with a celebration worthy of its scale: the inauguration was marked by the world’s largest lunch, with a 5 km table serving feijoada to 15,000 people!
- ✓ Construction: 37 months (1995-1998)
- ✓ Workforce: 3,300 people simultaneously
- ✓ Length: 17.185 km total
Engineering Secrets
Defying the Earth’s Curvature
Due to its enormous length, engineers had to consider the Earth’s curvature. If the deck had been built in a purely straight line, the final ramps would be 5 to 6 meters misaligned with the ground!
A Bridge that Respects the Tagus
One of the most innovative aspects is its environmental concern. To protect the Tagus estuary ecosystem, lighting points inwards to prevent disturbing marine life and birds. Foundations were also laid with minimal intervention in the riverbed.
Discover Lisbon
Yesterday and Today
The Vasco da Gama Bridge is just one piece of the puzzle. From medieval Alfama to the grand monuments of Belém, let us show you the secrets that aren’t in the books.
* Small groups for a personalized, local experience.
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