Biaschina Viaduct
Biaschina Viaduct
Viadotto Biaschina
Chironico, Ticino, Switzerland
335 feet high / 102 meters high
525 foot span / 160 meter span
1983
Image courtesy of Christian Menn.
The highest bridge on Switzerland’s A2 motorway, the Biaschina Viaduct towers high above the Ticino River about 15 miles (24 kms) south of the famous Gotthard Pass. The twin viaduct has a central span of 525 feet (160 mtrs) and two smaller spans of 459 feet (140 mtrs) as well as two small approach spans. Switzerland’s famous bridge designer Christian Menn was the consulting engineer.
Civil engineering fans may also want to check out the old and new Gotthard rail tunnels. Due for completion in 2018, the newer Gotthard Base Tunnel will be the longest of any kind in the world at 35.4 miles (57 kms). The St. Gotthard Road tunnel is the 3rd longest road tunnel in the world at 15.3 miles (24.51 kms). Also in the region and not to be missed is the Verzasca Dam. Located 30 miles (48 kms) south of the Biaschina bridge and a few miles north of Lake Maggiore, the 722 foot (220 mtr) high double curvature concrete arch dam is one of Europe’s highest. Since the double curvature design allowed the top edge of the dam to overhang the face of the structure, it became possible to open a bungee jumping operation at the site. For more information visit: http://www.trekking.ch/eng/bungy.asp
ELEVATION COMING SOON
Image courtesy of Christian Menn.
Image courtesy of Christian Menn.