Bridging the Gap with Billions: The World's Most Expensive Bridge Endeavors

1. Portugal's Ponte Dom Luis I

Situated in Portugal's Porto Founded in 1886 Expense: $2 million This double-decker iron bridge crosses the Douro River to link the ancient neighborhoods of Vila Nova de Gaia and Porto. It was built in 1886 at an estimated cost of $2 million. The bridge, which was created by the well-known Belgian engineer Théophile Seyrig, has two levels: one for cars and another for pedestrians and trams. From each level, there are expansive views of the river and the city skyline.

Portugal's Dom Luis I Ponte ©Deensel - Dom Luís I Bridge / Commonswikipedia Known by many as "The Double-Decker," it has come to represent the metropolitan allure and rich cultural legacy of Porto. At the time of its construction, the Ponte Dom Luis I was the longest iron arch bridge in the world, demonstrating Portugal's technological and engineering superiority throughout the Industrial Revolution.