A groundbreaking bridge, spanning 2,023 meters, now connects Europe and Asia as the world’s longest suspension bridge. The impressive 1915 Çanakkale Bridge, inaugurated on March 18, 2022, in northwest Turkey, surpasses Japan’s Akashi Kaikyo Bridge by 32 meters in length. Construction of this monumental structure over the Dardanelles Strait began in 2017, significantly reducing travel times by up to 93%.
By eliminating the need for 90-minute ferry trips, the bridge has become a vital link between Gelibolu in Europe and Lapseki in Asia, symbolizing Turkey’s rich history and heritage. The bridge’s name pays tribute to the Ottoman victory in World War I, a pivotal moment leading to the establishment of the Republic of Turkey in 1923.
Marking the year 2023, the bridge’s 2,203 meters acknowledge the centenary of the republic’s founding. The project, costing €2.5 billion, showcases Turkey’s engineering prowess and ambition. President Erdogan highlighted Turkey’s achievement, surpassing Japan’s record, and hailed the bridge as a symbol of unity and progress.
Despite its current status as the world’s longest suspension bridge, the 1915 Çanakkale Bridge faces a potential challenge from Italy’s proposed bridge connecting the mainland to Sicily. This new structure, if completed, would stretch over 3,300 meters, surpassing the current record. However, concerns regarding seismic activity, ocean currents, and impacts on bird migration routes remain significant considerations.
Italian Prime Minister Georgia Meloni emphasized the proposed bridge as an investment in Italy’s future, underscoring the nation’s willingness to tackle complex challenges for sustainable development. The ongoing debate over the feasibility and impact of the new bridge reflects the delicate balance between progress and environmental preservation.
