Žampach viaduct, Railway bridge in Luka pod Medníkem, Czech Republic
The Žampach viaduct is a stone railway bridge in Luka pod Medníkem, Czech Republic, built with seven arches that span the Kocour gorge. Made from granodiorite, it runs about 109 m (358 ft) long and rises roughly 42 m (138 ft) above the Studený stream below.
Construction of the viaduct started in 1898 and was finished in 1900, with Italian workers brought in to build the railway infrastructure. Its completion opened up a continuous rail connection through this remote corner of Bohemia.
The viaduct is part of the Posázavský pacifik railway line, a name coined by local hikers in the 1920s. The line runs through narrow valleys and draws both railway enthusiasts and walkers who follow the trails along the tracks.
The best views of the viaduct are from the trails that run along the gorge or from nearby viewpoints above the valley. The terrain is steep in places, so sturdy footwear is a good idea before setting out.
Since its completion in 1900, the viaduct has needed no major repairs, which is rare for a structure of this age and size. The granodiorite used in its construction was sourced locally, which likely contributed to how well it has held up over time.
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