The circular Laguna Garzón Bridge is a unique architectural marvel located in Uruguay. It was designed by renowned architect Rafael Viñoly. The bridge stands out due to its distinctive circular shape, a departure from traditional bridge designs.
Key Features
The most striking feature of the bridge is its circular roadway, which encourages drivers to slow down and appreciate the surrounding lagoon and landscape.
It’s also pedestrian-friendly, with walkways on both the inner and outer edges of the circle, offering stunning views and opportunities for fishing.
The design of the bridge prioritizes minimal disruption to the fragile ecosystem of the lagoon, with its pillars strategically placed to avoid sensitive areas. Additionally, the circular shape slows down traffic, promoting safety and mindfulness.
Purpose
The Laguna Garzón Bridge replaced a previous ferry service, significantly improving access between the Maldonado and Rocha departments in Uruguay. Its unique shape has turned the bridge into a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world.
Construction and Design
The construction of the bridge was completed in 2015, with an approximate cost of $10 million. It is built on concrete pillars with steel supports and cable stays, ensuring both durability and stability. The circular portion of the bridge has a diameter of approximately 103 meters (338 feet).
