History Crossing the Bridge Pilar 7 Experience Getting There

25th April Bridge (Ponte 25 de Abril)

Towering over the Tagus River, the majestic Ponte 25 de Abril suspension bridge connects Lisbon to the neighbouring district of Almada. Named after the Carnation Revolution of April 25th, 1974, it offers breathtaking views of the cityscape and river below. Whether you're strolling along its pedestrian walkways or marvelling at its architectural grandeur from afar, the bridge promises an unforgettable experience. Don't miss the opportunity to capture stunning photographs against the backdrop of Lisbon's skyline or to witness the spectacular sunset over the Tagus River. As one of the longest suspension bridges in Europe, Ponte 25 de Abril is not just a means of transportation but a cultural landmark that epitomises Lisbon's vibrant spirit. In August 2016, the Ponte 25 de Abril bridge celebrated 50 years since its inauguration. Come with www.madaboutlisbon.com as we explore the history, significance, and beauty of this iconic structure that has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike.

History

The concept of spanning the river at this point was first conceived in the 19th century, aiming to replace the ferry service connecting Lisbon with Almada. However, it wasn't until the mid-20th century that technological advancements made such a feat possible. Approved by Salazar's government in 1958, the bridge, initially named after the dictator, was later renamed after the Carnation Revolution in 1974. The construction cost €27 million, taking 25 years of toll collection to recoup the investment.

Inspired by Leon Moisseiff's Golden Gate Bridge design, Ponte 25 de Abril mirrors its iconic colouring and exceeds its length by 100m. Although the bridge spanned the river Tejo (Tagus) at its narrowest point in Lisbon, it still traverses more than a kilometre over water making it the largest suspension bridge in Europe and the 20th longest in the world. The design choice was influenced by San Francisco's seismic activity, a shared concern with Lisbon. With foundations reaching 80m below the riverbed into basalt rock, the bridge stands 70 metres above the water, allowing shipping access to Lisbon's docks. Expanded from four to six lanes in the 1990s, it also accommodates a lower deck railway line, stretching over two kilometres with the viaduct on the northern bank.

25th April Bridge Construction

Pilar 7 Experience (Experiência Pilar 7)

Experiência Pilar 7 (Pilar 7 Experience)

With this entrance ticket you can gain entry to the Pillar 7 Experience at your leisure. Book with confidence with FREE CANCELLATION Buy online before you arrive to avoid queues and have the convenience of the e-ticket on your phone…

This attraction was inaugurated in time for the 50th-anniversary celebrations of the 25th April Bridge in 2016. The Pillar 7 Experience in Alcântara is housed within a pillar of the great bridge. The tour excites all senses starting as you arrive with the constant "hum" of traffic above and the shudder of a passing train. Inside the exhibits follow the journey of the history of its construction. On show are the support cables which hold the bridge together. A panoramic elevator whisks you 80 metres up to the road level to a panoramic viewing platform that provides an unrivalled view of the city and the river. Utilising modern multimedia devices, the visit ends with an optional immersive virtual-reality experience of parts of the bridge that are inaccessible and a call at the PhotoBooth so you can record this unforgettable moment.
October to April Daily: 10h00 - 18h00, May to September: 10h00 - 20h00

Adult: €5.00, Concessionary: €3.50, Child 0-5: FREE, Lisbon Card: FREE

Crossing the Bridge

25th April Bridge (Ponte 25 de Abril)

	The bridge can get very busy with commuters during rush hour time, albeit with efforts to control the traffic flow into Lisbon by omitting tolls for cars travelling South and out of the city. At the time of writing this, the toll is €1.75. On an average day, 150,000 vehicles cross the bridge.
	Fertagus run services from Lisbon to the North and Setúbal to the South and traverses the 24 de Abril bridge to the Pragal train station. • Lisbon - Setubal Timetables \| Website CP (Comboios de Portugal) trains which head South of Lisbon traverse the bridge: Intercity (Intercidades) trains to/from Évora and Beja • Linha do Alentejo: Timetable Portugal's High Speed National Service • Alfa Pendular Timetable Trains of Portugal Website
	Carris bus routes to/from Lisbon across the bridge to Centro Sul in Almada: • Bus 753: Timetable From here you can connect with Metro Transportes do Sul (MST) light railway services Website and TST buses Website

GETTING TO THE 25th APRIL BRIDGE

	Linha Cascais trains stop at the Alcantara-Mar train staion close by Timetable Trains of Portugal Website
	714, 727, 732, 751 or take the #15E (to Belém) tram from either Praça da Figueira or Praça do Comércio (Terreiro do Paço)