Tancredo Neves Bridge, International road bridge between Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil and Puerto Iguazu, Argentina
The Tancredo Neves Bridge links Foz do Iguaçu in Brazil with Puerto Iguazú in Argentina across the Iguazu River. The structure features a concrete deck arch design with a main span of approximately 220 meters and extends roughly 480 meters in total length.
Construction began in 1982 following a bilateral agreement, and the bridge opened in 1985. Its completion marked a turning point in strengthening economic ties between the two South American nations.
The bridge was first called Ponte da Fraternidade (Fraternity Bridge), echoing the Ponte da Amizade over the Paraná; it was later renamed for Tancredo Neves, the elected president who died in 1985 before taking office. On 30 November 1985, the day after the inauguration, Sarney and Alfonsín signed the Iguaçu Declaration here, which led to Mercosur.
Visitors need to have their documents ready, as crossing the border involves official procedures on both sides. Daytime crossing is advisable, when border checkpoints are most staffed and the crossing is most straightforward.
The Iguazu Declaration was signed on 30 November 1985, the day after the bridge opened, by José Sarney and Raúl Alfonsín; it led to Mercosur. The bridge was first called Ponte da Fraternidade, matching the Ponte da Amizade over the Paraná. Its 220 m main span rests on piers founded on 20 piles of 1.8 m diameter set 4 m into sound rock.
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