Palace Bridge, Steel bascule bridge on Neva River, Saint Petersburg, Russia.
Palace Bridge is a steel bascule structure over the Neva River in Saint Petersburg, Russia, measuring around 261 meters long and roughly 28 meters wide. Its two movable sections lift at night to allow vessels to pass, while cars and pedestrians share the roadway during the day.
Construction began in 1912 following designs by architect Andrzej Pszenicki and continued through World War I. The opening took place in December 1916 to link central Saint Petersburg with Vasilievsky Island.
The name comes from the nearby Winter Palace, and it serves as one of the main connections between the historic center and Vasilievsky Island. Pedestrians and vehicles use it throughout the day, while at night it rises to let ships pass and becomes a recognizable symbol of the city.
During the navigation season, the structure opens at night according to a fixed timetable, so travelers need to plan their crossings between roughly 1:10 AM and 5:00 AM. Pedestrians can walk on the sidewalks but should watch the opening schedule to avoid being stranded on the wrong side.
The mechanical system raises two segments, each 59 meters long and weighing around 700 tons, so large vessels can travel between the Baltic Sea and inland waterways. The sight of the opening sections draws spectators to the waterfront at night.
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