Affonso Penna bridge, Suspension bridge in Itumbiara, Brazil.
The Affonso Penna bridge is a suspension structure that crosses the Paranaiba River, linking Itumbiara in Goias with Arapora in Minas Gerais. It carries both road and rail traffic on a framework of iron with wooden planking.
Built in the early 1900s and opened in 1909, the structure marked a turning point for regional infrastructure development in central-western Brazil. It enabled new economic connections across state borders that previously had been difficult to maintain.
The structure stands as a symbol of connection between two states, and locals still cross it daily as part of their routine. It represents an important moment when infrastructure brought distant communities closer together.
Visitors can walk or drive across the structure while observing its construction and the river landscape below. It is best to visit during daylight hours to see the details of the ironwork and wooden elements clearly.
The structure was among the first of its kind in the region, combining cutting-edge engineering of that era with locally sourced materials. This blend of advanced technique and regional resources made it a remarkable example of Brazil's early industrial development.
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