Moerdijk bridges, Bridge complex in Moerdijk, Netherlands
The Moerdijk bridges are a three-bridge complex spanning the Hollands Diep river, connecting the Dordrecht area of South Holland to North Brabant over 1,000 meters (3,280 feet). The structures carry railway lines, high-speed trains, and the six-lane motorway A16 traffic simultaneously.
The first railway bridge opened in 1872 as Europe's longest at that time, marking a major engineering achievement. German forces destroyed all existing bridges during their 1944 retreat, requiring complete reconstruction.
The bridge complex represents a milestone in Dutch engineering, showcasing innovations that have influenced infrastructure design. Visitors can see how engineering achievements shape the landscape and connect communities across waterways.
The bridge complex is accessible to motorists, train passengers, and pedestrians, with each traffic type using separate lanes and tracks. Best visited during daylight hours when the structures are clearly visible and the flow of transport can be observed.
Sections of the original 1978 road bridge remain as a monument on the south bank, displaying its innovative steel construction. A memorial relief at the site tells the story of this structure's importance to the region.
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