Solkan Bridge
Gorizia
The Solkan Bridge, located near Nova Gorica in western Slovenia, is renowned as the world's longest stone arch railroad bridge with an impressive arch span of 85 meters. Constructed between 1900 and 1905 as part of the Bohinj Railway, it exemplifies early 20th-century engineering and architectural excellence. Designed by architect Rudolf Jaussner and engineer Leopold Oerley, the bridge is composed of 4,533 stone blocks sourced from regional quarries. Originally planned as a steel arch, the design was changed to a stone arch due to soil conditions. The bridge has witnessed significant historical events, including its destruction by Austrian forces during World War I and subsequent reconstruction by Italians in the 1920s. Despite enduring six Allied air raids during World War II, it sustained minimal damage and remains a symbol of technical heritage. Today, the bridge is celebrated for its elegant stone construction, historical importance, and striking presence over the Soča River, especially when illuminated at night.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to visit the Solkan Bridge in late spring to early autumn for the best weather and lighting conditions. Advance planning is recommended as the bridge is a popular tourist attraction. While there is no entrance fee, guided tours and informational materials may be available locally. The adjacent road bridge built in 1985 offers additional vantage points for photography. Evening visits are particularly rewarding when the bridge is illuminated.
Interesting facts
- •The Solkan Bridge holds the world record for the longest stone arch railroad bridge with an 85-meter span.
- •It was constructed using 4,533 individual stone blocks, some weighing up to 0.7 cubic meters.
- •The bridge survived six Allied air raids during World War II with only minimal damage.
- •During World War I, the bridge was destroyed using 930 kilograms of explosive by retreating Austrian forces.
- •The bridge was inaugurated in 1906 by the Austrian heir Franz Ferdinand, who stopped on the bridge during its opening ceremony.
History
The Solkan Bridge was constructed between 1900 and 1905 as part of the Bohinj Railway connecting Trieste and Vienna, officially opening in 1906 with the Austrian heir Franz Ferdinand present.
In August 1916, Austrian soldiers destroyed the bridge during World War I to hinder enemy forces.
A temporary steel structure replaced it until Italians rebuilt the stone bridge from 1925 to 1927, slightly modifying the design with four sub-arches instead of five.
During World War II, the bridge sustained minimal damage despite multiple bombing attempts.
In 1985, a nearby concrete road bridge was added to improve regional connectivity.
Place Guide
Main Stone Arch1904-1905
The central and defining feature of the bridge, the massive 85-meter stone arch spans the Soča River with remarkable elegance, constructed from precisely fitted limestone blocks.
Side Viaducts1904-1905
The viaducts at both ends of the bridge support the railway track and were built by the Italian company Sard, Lenassi & Co. They complement the main arch and contribute to the bridge's overall stability and aesthetics.
Reconstructed Arch (1925-1927)1925-1927
After destruction in World War I, the bridge was rebuilt by Italians with a slightly thinner arch and only four sub-arches, using stone blocks from multiple quarries and cement from Anhovska cement plant.
Contact
Phone: (05) 330 46 00
