Bacunayagua Bridge
Mayabeque
Bacunayagua Bridge is the highest bridge in Cuba, spanning a deep canyon between the Yumuri Valley and the Straits of Florida coast. Completed in 1959, it measures 313.5 meters in length and rises approximately 103.5 meters above the Bacunayagua River. Designed by engineer Luis Sáenz Duplace and constructed without any falsework, the bridge features 11 spans of 28.5 meters each, supported by reinforced concrete beams and polygonal arches. It serves as a critical connection on the Vía Blanca highway, linking the provinces of Mayabeque and Matanzas. The site offers spectacular views of the surrounding valley and sea, with an observation deck and restaurant on the Mayabeque side, and a campground on the Matanzas side. Considered one of Cuba's seven wonders of civil engineering, the bridge's construction was challenging due to strong winds and the difficult terrain. Its architectural and engineering significance lies in its innovative design and the successful use of post-tensioned structures directly founded on rock.
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Consejo: The best time to visit Bacunayagua Bridge is during daylight hours to fully appreciate the panoramic views of the canyon and sea. Visitors are encouraged to stop at the observation deck restaurant on the Mayabeque side for refreshments and scenic photographs. It is advisable to check weather conditions, as strong winds can occur. While entrance is free, planning your visit to avoid peak traffic on the Vía Blanca highway can enhance the experience. No advance ticket purchase is necessary.
Datos interesantes
- •Bacunayagua Bridge is the highest bridge in Cuba, standing approximately 103.5 meters above the Bacunayagua River.
- •It was constructed without any falsework, a rare engineering feat for bridges of its size.
- •The bridge comprises 11 spans, each 28.5 meters long, supported by reinforced concrete beams and polygonal arches.
- •It was the last segment completed on the Vía Blanca highway, a key route linking Havana and Matanzas.
- •The bridge is considered one of the seven wonders of Cuban civil engineering.
Historia
Construction of Bacunayagua Bridge began in 1956 and was completed in 1959, marking the final link in the Vía Blanca highway connecting Havana and Matanzas.
Designed by Luis Sáenz Duplace, the bridge overcame significant engineering challenges posed by its location over a deep canyon with strong winds.
Originally, it served as the boundary between La Habana and Matanzas provinces, but after administrative changes in 2010, it now divides Mayabeque and Matanzas provinces.
The bridge is recognized as one of Cuba's civil engineering marvels due to its height and innovative design.
Guía del lugar
Observation Deck and Restaurant
Located on the Mayabeque side of the bridge, this facility offers panoramic views of the canyon and the sea, providing visitors a place to relax and enjoy refreshments while taking in the scenic landscape.
Bacunayagua Bridge Structure1956-1959
The bridge itself is an engineering masterpiece featuring 11 spans supported by polygonal arches and reinforced concrete beams. It directly rests on rock foundations and was built using post-tensioned techniques without falsework, which was innovative for its time.
