Bridges have never been short of symbols of human inventive power and human ambition. They connect not merely places but people. The longest bridges in the world are among the vaults of the earth over which viaducts literally thousands of miles span vast bodies of water.
In this article, we are talking about top bridges of the world, comparing their lengths, purposes, and importance, and understanding the features that make these structures unique.
What Defines the Longest Bridges?
It is very interesting how in many languages the term long bridge goes beyond length to also refer to structural complexity and purpose as well as engineering feats.
- Type of Usage: Road, rail, or multipurpose.
- Structural Design: Suspension, viaduct, beam, or cantilever bridges.
- Length Measurement: Total structure length, including approach spans.
Why Are Longest Bridges Important?
Long bridges are not just about aesthetics or records. They serve critical purposes:
- Enhanced Connectivity: Reducing travel time across natural obstacles like rivers or lakes.
- Economic Impact: Facilitating trade and transportation.
- Symbolic Significance: Many are national pride monuments.
Top Longest Bridges in the World
Here is a detailed look at some of the world’s longest bridges that have set benchmarks in design and functionality:
1. Danyang Kunshan Grand Bridge
Length: 164 km
Location: Jiangsu Province, China
The Danyang Kunshan Grand Bridge holds the title for the longest bridge in the world, stretching an impressive 164 kilometers. This colossal viaduct, part of the Beijing Shanghai High Speed Railway, traverses over a vast stretch of countryside, including marshlands, lakes, and rice fields.
It was completed in 2010 and was designed to withstand seismic activity and extreme weather conditions.
2. Changhua Kaohsiung Viaduct
Length: 157 km
Location: Taiwan
The Changhua Kaohsiung Viaduct is part of Taiwan’s high speed rail system and spans 157 kilometers. It connects Changhua County to Kaohsiung and serves as an essential component in Taiwan’s efforts to modernize its railway infrastructure. Built to withstand seismic events, the bridge was completed in 2007.
3. Cangde Grand Bridge
Length: 116 km
Location: Hebei, China
The Cangde Grand Bridge is another major viaduct on the Beijing–Shanghai High Speed Railway, measuring 116 kilometers in length. Opened in 2010, it crosses a variety of terrains and is designed to endure seismic activity and extreme weather, making it a critical infrastructure project in China.
4. Tianjin Grand Bridge
Length: 113 km
Location: Tianjin, China
Spanning 113 kilometers, the Tianjin Grand Bridge connects Langfang to Qingxian, part of the high speed rail route between Beijing and Shanghai. Built between 2008 and 2010, this impressive viaduct is one of the longest bridges in the world and was constructed with an eye on durability and resilience.
5. Weinan Weihe Grand Bridge
Length: 79 km
Location: Weinan, China
The Weinan Weihe Grand Bridge is one of the longest railway bridges in the world, stretching 79 kilometers. It is part of the Zhengzhou–Xi’an High Speed Railway and spans the Wei River. This bridge serves a vital role in China’s high speed rail network, connecting two major cities.
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6. Bang Na Expressway
Length: 54 km
Location: Bangkok, Thailand
The Bang Na Expressway is a remarkable elevated highway that measures 54 kilometers. This six lane expressway, completed in 2000, runs across Bangkok, connecting Bang Na Interchange to Chon Buri Interchange. At the time of its completion, it was the longest bridge in the world.
7. Beijing Grand Bridge
Length: 48 km
Location: Beijing, China
Part of the Beijing–Shanghai High Speed Railway, the Beijing Grand Bridge spans 48 kilometers. This viaduct is designed to handle high speed trains traveling between Beijing and Shanghai and is one of China’s many engineering marvels when it comes to high speed rail infrastructure.
8. Lake Pontchartrain Causeway
Length: 38 km
Location: Louisiana, USA
The Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, often just referred to as “The Causeway,” is a pair of bridges that stretch across Lake Pontchartrain in Louisiana. Opened in 1956, it spans 38 kilometers and holds the title of being one of the longest continuous bridges over water.
9. Wuhan Metro Bridge
Length: 37 km
Location: Wuhan, China
The Wuhan Metro Bridge is part of the city’s elevated metro system, measuring 37 kilometers in length. The bridge plays a significant role in easing traffic congestion across the Yangtze River and has been operational since 2004.
10. Manchac Swamp Bridge
Length: 36 km
Location: Louisiana, USA
The Manchac Swamp Bridge spans 36 kilometers and is a twin concrete trestle bridge located in Louisiana. It crosses over the Manchac Swamp and is known for its spooky reputation, though the alligators are perhaps more terrifying than the tales of ghosts.
11. Vasco da Gama Bridge
Length: 17 km
Location: Lisbon, Portugal
The Vasco da Gama Bridge in Lisbon is the longest bridge in Europe, measuring 17 kilometers. Opened in 1998, it was built to ease congestion on other routes into the city and is a vital part of Portugal’s infrastructure.
12. Öresund Bridge
Length: 8 km
Location: Connecting Denmark and Sweden
The Öresund Bridge is a 16 kilometer bridge and tunnel hybrid connecting Copenhagen, Denmark, and Malmö, Sweden. At 8 kilometers long for its bridge portion, it’s a vital piece of infrastructure for Scandinavian travel and trade.
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| Bridge Name | Country | Length (km) | Purpose | Unique Feature |
| Danyang Kunshan Grand Bridge | China | 164 | High speed rail network (Beijing Shanghai Railway) | World’s longest bridge. |
| Changhua Kaohsiung Viaduct | Taiwan | 157 | High speed rail network | Built for seismic resistance. |
| Cangde Grand Bridge | China | 116 | High speed rail network (Beijing Shanghai Railway) | Spans diverse terrains. |
| Tianjin Grand Bridge | China | 113 | High speed rail network (Beijing Shanghai Railway) | Designed for seismic resistance. |
| Weinan Weihe Grand Bridge | China | 79 | High speed rail network (Zhengzhou Xi’an Railway) | Crosses the Wei River. |
| Bang Na Expressway | Thailand | 54 | Elevated highway | Longest bridge at completion (2000). |
| Beijing Grand Bridge | China | 48 | High speed rail network (Beijing Shanghai Railway) | Key section of Beijing Shanghai railway. |
| Lake Pontchartrain Causeway | USA (Louisiana) | 38 | Highway over water | Longest continuous bridge over water. |
| Wuhan Metro Bridge | China | 37 | Metro system (Wuhan) | Crosses the Yangtze River. |
| Manchac Swamp Bridge | USA (Louisiana) | 36 | Highway (I-55) | Spans Manchac Swamp. |
| Vasco da Gama Bridge | Portugal | 17 | Highway and public transportation | Longest in Europe. |
| Öresund Bridge | Denmark/Sweden | 8 | Road and rail connection (Copenhagen Malmö) | Bridge tunnel hybrid. |
Engineering Marvels of the Longest Bridges
Materials and Structural Innovations
The longest bridges use advanced materials like high strength steel and reinforced concrete. For instance:
- Steel: Offers flexibility and strength in suspension bridges.
- Reinforced Concrete: Used in viaducts like the Changhua–Kaohsiung Viaduct for durability.
Transport Efficiency vs. Aesthetics in the Longest Bridges
- High Speed Rail Bridges: Such as the Danyang Kunshan, prioritize speed and reliability.
- Expressways: Bridges like the Bang Na Expressway focus on decongesting roadways.
Economic and Regional Impact
Bridges are economic lifelines. For example:
- The Lake Pontchartrain Causeway has transformed the commuting landscape in Louisiana.
- Asian railway viaducts significantly reduce travel time across vast distances, boosting trade.
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How Longest Bridges Influence Daily Life
Long bridges play pivotal roles in daily life:
- Shortened Commutes: Connecting remote areas to urban centers.
- Trade and Transportation: Facilitating goods movement between regions.
- Tourism Growth: Iconic bridges attract millions of visitors yearly.
- Environmental Impact: Advanced designs minimize ecological disruption.
The Future of Longest Bridges Engineering
The evolution of bridge construction is far from over. Engineers are exploring:
- Sustainable Designs: Using eco friendly materials and solar powered systems.
- AI in Construction: Enhancing precision and reducing human errors.
- Innovative Projects: Concepts like floating bridges and underwater tunnels are becoming realities.
FAQs About the Longest Bridges
What is the longest bridge facts?
The Danyang Kunshan Grand Bridge in China is the longest bridge, stretching 164 km. It was completed in 2010 and is part of the Beijing Shanghai High Speed Railway.
What is the 7th longest bridge in the world?
The Beijing Grand Bridge in China is the 7th longest, at 48 km, part of the high speed railway connecting Beijing and Shanghai.
Which country has the highest bridge in the world?
China has the highest bridge, the Bailong Bridge, which stands at 565 meters above the ground. It spans a deep canyon in Guizhou Province.
What is the longest bridge in the USA?
The Lake Pontchartrain Causeway in Louisiana, USA, is the longest bridge in the country, stretching 38 km across Lake Pontchartrain.
Which bridge is the longest in Europe?
The Vasco da Gama Bridge in Portugal holds the title of the longest bridge in Europe, with a length of 17 km, connecting Lisbon to its eastern suburbs.
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Conclusion: Longest Bridges Around the World
The longest bridges in the world stand as testaments to human ingenuity. They symbolize progress, connect regions, and transform economies. Whether it is the stunning Danyang Kunshan Grand Bridge in China or the iconic Lake Pontchartrain Causeway in the USA, each bridge tells a unique story of engineering excellence.
These structures aren’t just marvels of design but also lifelines for millions, proving that when it comes to bridging gaps, the sky’s the limit.
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My name is Linda, and I am an experienced blogger with a passion for precision and craftsmanship. With years of expertise, I contribute to Accura Matrics, bringing a wealth of knowledge and a keen eye for detail. My insightful articles and expert tips are designed to help readers achieve excellence in their measurements and dimensions projects, offering valuable guidance in the pursuit of accurate and thoughtful design.
