Ponte móvel de Leça, Bascule bridge in Matosinhos, Portugal.
The Ponte Móvel de Leça is a bascule bridge spanning 92 meters across the Leça River with distinctive blue H-shaped supports. It uses a hydraulic system to lift both halves vertically, allowing ships to pass underneath.
The current bridge opened in 2007, replacing the original structure completed in 1961. This replacement became necessary to accommodate larger container ships accessing the Port of Leixões.
The bridge marks the riverbank visibly and serves as a local landmark that symbolizes connection between neighborhoods. Residents and visitors experience it as a daily crossing point where industrial activity and urban life meet.
The bridge has two pedestrian elevators on either side, making it accessible for people with mobility limitations. The improved opening mechanism allows faster ship passages and shorter waiting times for foot and vehicle traffic.
At around 1300 tons total weight, this structure ranks among the world's largest movable bridges. Its hydraulic technology was engineered to handle ship passages significantly faster than previous bridge generations.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
