Turkey recently unveiled the world’s longest suspension bridge, the 1915 Çanakkale Bridge, spanning 2,023 meters and linking Europe and Asia. This architectural marvel, opened in March 2022, surpasses Japan’s Akashi Kaikyo Bridge by 32 meters. The construction, which began in 2017, significantly reduced travel times by up to 93%.
The bridge, a symbol of national pride, eliminates the need for 90-minute ferry trips. Its name, “1915,” commemorates the Ottoman victory in World War I, leading to the establishment of the Republic of Turkey in 1923. The bridge’s length, 2,203 meters, pays tribute to Turkey’s centenary celebration in 2023, representing a €2.5 billion investment by the country.
President Erdogan lauded the completion of the project, highlighting its significance in Canakkale’s rich history. Despite currently holding the title of the world’s longest suspension bridge, the 1915 Çanakkale Bridge faces potential competition from Italy’s proposed bridge connecting the mainland to Sicily, spanning 3,300 meters.
Italian Prime Minister, Georgia Meloni, emphasized the importance of this ambitious project, citing its potential impact on Italy’s future. However, concerns have been raised regarding seismic activity, strong currents, and disruption to bird migration routes.