Riga Bridges

LETA

Five bridges span the Daugava River; each of them has its own history and features, and stories about what they've seen. Railway Bridge, which beams in blue and white neon at night, is the oldest one. When there is a strong wind, you can hear Akmens Bridge singing while Salu Bridge is proud of being the strongest one. Vanšu Bridge is located farthest to the North, looking at the sea and the coming and going ships. The youngest bridge - Dienvidu Bridge - is still under construction.

Railway Bridge was opened in 1914 and was decorated in 2007 - its illuminated arches are best viewed from afar. When crossing the bridge at daytime you'll see the new building of the Latvian National Library - the Palace of Light - rising like an iceberg on the left side of the Daugava River. You will also see bridge pier of the former Zemgales Bridge right next to Railway Bridge; it was destroyed during World War II and never restored.

Akmens Bridge is more than a half-kilometre long; its construction began in 1955 and ended in July 1957. The bridge takes you from the left side of Daugava right to Old Town. Its right end faces the Blackheads' House and the Occupation Museum. All Rigans and visitors to the city are welcomed by the Cockerel on top of St. Peter's Church. The bridge is pedestrian-friendly as both sides feature three-metre-wide sidewalks. In Autumn 2010, Akmens Bridge regained its historic lampposts.

Vanšu Bridge is located farthest to the North and closer to the sea. It was opened in July 1981. You can take the bridge to get to the modern skyscraper - Saules akmens (Sun Stone) - and then to the Riga Castle, which is the residence of the current President of Latvia. The bridge is popular among those who like extreme activities. They have tried to climb up the cables or cycle on the parapet though the sidewalks have enough space for bicycles. Such activities are forbidden and punishable by law.

The 3.5 kilometre-long bridge - Salu Bridge - was opened in December 1976. It crosses Kojusalas Ditch, Zvirgzdusala Island, Daugava, Zaķusala Island, Little Daugava, Lusavsala Island and Bieķengrāvis Ditch. When taking the centre direction, you'll see the Radio and Television Tower on the right side. Get off the bus on Zaķusala and have a nice walk to the Tower. Besides, Salu Bridge has special sidewalks right under the road.

The construction of the latest bridge - Dienvidu Bridge - started in mid-November 2004. In 2007 it gained its orange cables, but in 2008 it was opened. The bridge features three lanes in each direction, a cycle path and a sidewalk. However, the left end is still under construction, you can get on the bridge only by taking small roads. Dienvidu Bridge is set to be finished in 2012.

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