Žďákov Bridge, Deck arch bridge near Orlík nad Vltavou, Czech Republic
Žďákov Bridge is a steel arch structure crossing the Vltava River between Staré Sedlo and Kostelec nad Vltavou in the Czech Republic. The main arch reaches a span of 362 meters, the total length measures 543 meters, and the roadway sits 50 meters (164 feet) above the water.
Work started in 1958 and continued until 1967, while the Orlík dam was being built at the same time. At completion, it ranked as the largest steel arch crossing in the world.
The name recalls the former village of Žďákov, which was flooded during the creation of the Orlík reservoir. Drivers use the crossing daily as part of the route linking Tábor and Pilsen, while some stop to take in the view of the reservoir below.
Travelers passing through can usually cross without delays, as the structure handles through traffic smoothly. Access to the riverbanks is limited, so a stop at nearby viewpoints works better for a closer look.
In 2001, a symposium in Brno awarded the structure the Bridge of the Century prize for its engineering approach to steel road construction. This recognition highlights design choices that set new standards at the time.
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