25 de Abril Bridge

Overview

The Ponte 25 de Abril is a 2.3 km suspension bridge spanning the Tagus between Lisbon and Almada. Its red-painted steel towers draw frequent comparisons to San Francisco's Golden Gate — both were built by the same company, American Bridge.

Highlights

• Visual landmark: The bridge features in virtually every Lisbon panorama and sunset photo.
• Cristo Rei: The 110 m Christ statue on the south bank is reached via the bridge (or by ferry from Cais do Sodré).
• Pilar 7 Experience: An interactive centre at the bridge's north anchorage with a glass-floor viewpoint.

History

Opened on 6 August 1966 as the Salazar Bridge, it was renamed after the date of Portugal's 1974 Carnation Revolution. A lower rail deck was added in 1999.

Visitor Tips

• Best views from afar: Seen spectacularly from Monsanto Park, the Belém waterfront, and the Cristo Rei statue.
• Pilar 7: The visitor experience at the north tower includes a virtual-reality journey.
• Duration: 15–20 minutes (viewing; longer if visiting Pilar 7 or Cristo Rei).