Žďákovský most Road bridge
Žďákovský most is a monumental steel arch road bridge from 1967, which surpasses the river Vltava in the locations of the Orlická dam in the county of Písek in southern Bohemia. With a total length of more than 500 metres and a height of 50 metres above the surface of the lake, they form an important part of the I / 19 road connecting Tabor with Pilsen. In their time, experts considered it the world's largest solid double-articulated steel arch bridge and today it holds its first place within the Czech Republic.
The construction of the transition was already considered in 1941. However, due to a 20-meter rise in water, the designers modified the plans. Work on bridge supports began in 1949. The actual construction was allegedly carried out in parallel with the construction of the Orlická dam dam in 1958. The construction took place under socialist Czechoslovakia, whose construction was successfully promoted at international level. The work for 71 million CZK of Czechoslovak crowns passed a four-year break between 1960 and 1964 and was definitively completed in 1967.
The author of the architectural design was Karel Vejmelka. The main designer became Oskar Oehler and autorem- designer Ing. Josef Zeman. Pragoprojekt and Hutý projekt Praha cooperated on the project. The construction was carried out by the Hutní assembly company Ostrava-Vítkovice. The construction uses a major steel arch with a large margin which supports a bridge with a two-lane road. The length of the bridge is 542,91 metres and the main arch has a span of 379,60 metres between the pillars and 330 metres between the joints. The weight of the arc itself is 3 100 tonnes and the total weight of all steel used is 4 116 tonnes. The road is 50 metres above the lake and 100 metres above the Vltava floor. The highest water depth under this monument is 55 meters above standard levels. The bridge lies between the villages of Old Sedlo on the left bank and Kostelec on the right bank of the river.
Over the years, the construction has requested repairs and solutions to technical problems. In 1998, they discovered a tear in the bridge and then several others. They were created by getting water into the sinuses, there was no way out, and it damaged the material in the cold. The bridge was closed for two months for the operation of vehicles until the failures and their causes were removed. Due to the growing operation of trucks, they banned the entry of vehicles over 13 tonnes in spring 2010. After the publication of the tender in 2011 and due to subsequent litigation, the general correction started for CZK 159 million until 8 June 2015. During the reconstruction the bridge was closed for all transportation. They restored the transport by car on 16 September 2016 and completed the repair in autumn 2017.
The bridge is connected to several important milestones. These include the award of the Most of the Century in the category of steel road bridges on the Brno bridge symposium 2001. On the other hand, this monument is also known from criminal history as the place where the victims of so-called eagles were dumped in barrels. At the same time, it's a location sought by suicides.
The construction currently serves its original purpose as a key transport artery connecting regions. Its technical parameters and architectural solutions attract the attention of experts and the general public. Visiting this unique work offers a view of the Czechoslovak bridge construction championships of the last century embedded in the landscape of southern Bohemia.
Architectural development
The bridge structure uses the main steel arch with a large margin which supports the bridge with a two-lane road. The weight of the arc itself is over three thousand tonnes and the total weight of the steel used is over four thousand tonnes. The construction was carried out by Hutní assembly company Ostrava-Vítkovice according to the design of Pragoprojekt and Hutý projekt Praha. Over the years, the construction has requested repairs due to emerging cracks in the bridge beam and subsequent general reconstruction.
Historical events
In 1967 the bridge was finally completed and operational after years of construction. In 2001 he won the Most of the Century Prize in the category of steel road bridges at the Brno symposium. In the spring of 2010, over 13 tonnes of vehicles were prohibited on the bridge due to increasing traffic. Between 2015 and 2016, the bridge underwent a large overhaul linked to the complete closure for all transport.
Points of interest
- In their time, experts considered it to be the world's largest empty double-articulated steel arch bridge and today it holds its first place within the Czech Republic. - In 1998 they discovered a crack in the bridge bridge and then several others, which were created by the way that the water was reaching the sinuses, had no way to escape and damaged the material in the cold. - The bridge won the Most of the Century award in the category of steel road bridges on the Brno bridge symposium 2001. - This monument is known from criminal history as the place where the victims of so-called eagles were dumped in barrels. - It's a location that suicides are looking for.
Guide
Show guide text
This text was created by artificial intelligence and has not been editorially reviewed. It may contain inaccuracies.
Welcome! You're standing in front of one of the most famous engineering works of our state, the Swiss Bridge. Under your feet is a massive steel structure that reverently surpasses the water currents of Vltava under the Orlicka dam. In front of you, this architectural pearl fades into the horizon and rises up as if trying to touch the sky itself.
Let's share his history. Already in 1941 the first ideas of the bridge appeared in this place. However, for decades, specifically in 1958, the construction of the current structures that are ahead of you has been launched. The bridge was built simultaneously with the construction of the Orlická dam dam and its completion in 1967 marked a new chapter in the relationship between man and country.
Look up at this monumental structure. Žďákovský most is surprisingly elegant for its range - the total length exceeds 500 meters and the height is 50 meters. Its architecture, designed by Karel Vejmelka, Oskar Oehler and Josef Zeman, is a model example of the steel arc bridge. Notice its two-articulated structure, which gives it unique stability and aesthetics.
The key personalities associated with this monument are their creators - architect Karel Vejmelka and engineers Oskar Oehler and Josef Zeman. Their joint efforts created a bridge, which in its time was considered to be the world's largest single-fenced double-articulated steel arch bridge. Today he keeps this title within the Czech Republic.
Now let's look at the interesting thing that was crucial to the bridge. In 1998, they discovered a crack in the bridge bridge and several others, which led to a deep study of its structural integrity. It was discovered that the water was entering the sinuses, where it had no place to spray. This problem was later successfully resolved and the bridge was reopened after reconstruction for automotive transport in 2016.
Žďákovský most is not only a technical work, but also a symbol of courage and engineering. Imagine how it was built in a time when man tried to overcome nature and build for future generations works that survive centuries.
Allow me to invite you to explore this wonderful place again. Let yourself be approached by his history and architecture and remember to take the time to reflect on how much the human spirit can achieve. When we meet again, we will continue our journey through beautiful landscapes and historical monuments of our state.
Thank you for your attention, and I wish you a pleasant walk.
Tips for visitors
The best time to visit the Zděkovsky Bridge is early in the morning or during the late afternoon, when sunlight creates ideal shadows on the steel structure and surface of the water tank Orlík. You will avoid crowds of tourists and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this technical splendour.
The location is also available by public transport, and we recommend checking the specific connections in the respective connection search engine.
With you pack solid shoes for walking in the surrounding terrain, comfortable clothes, plenty of drinking water and snacks, as there may be no permanent refreshments in the immediate vicinity of the bridge. Also remember to pack your camera or smart phone to capture unique views.
For the best photographic footage, look at the views around the banks of the Vltava River, where the overall monumental of the steel arch above the water surface stands out. The best light for the images can be obtained during side lighting in the morning or late afternoon.
In the vicinity of the 30 minutes trip you can discover the natural beauty of the Písek district, visit the village of Old Sedlo and Kostelec above the Vltavou or admire the vast water tank Orlík. With the children, take a walk along the surrounding views and forest paths, which offer safe discovery of South Bohemian nature.
Frequently asked questions
Can the monument be visited?
This is a structure in a public space that can usually be seen from outside free of charge. We have not verified that this particular one is freely accessible.
Where is the monument?
Location: Jihočeský kraj. The map on this page shows the exact spot.
Why is the monument protected?
It is listed in the Central List of Cultural Monuments of the Czech Republic as a cultural monument (register no. 1000142077).
Businesses nearby
Do you run a restaurant, accommodation, shop, museum, rental, wellness or other visitor service near this monument? Show yourself directly to the people heading to it — this is how they will see you in the app and on the web:
Events nearby
Zdroj akcí: otevřená data měst a obcí ČR (Národní katalog otevřených dat) a kalendář akcí Národního památkového ústavu.
Nearby
Most se nachází v jižních Čechách v okrese Písek, přičemž leží mezi vesnicemi Staré Sedlo na levém břehu a Kostelec nad Vltavou na pravém břehu řeky. Oblast je spjata s vodní nádrží Orlík na řece Vltavě.
Accommodation nearby
Themed route
Thematic cruise route around the Zděkovsky Bridge
1. Žďákovský most (bridge)
Why is it worth a visit: This historic bridge is a beautiful architectural monument from the 16th century, which connects the two banks of the river Vltava. Its importance lies not only in its function as a transport passage, but also in its historical and cultural importance to the region.
2. Old Sedlo (village)
Why is worth a visit: Old Sedlo is a picturesque village on the left bank of the Vltava where Žďákovský most is located. It is an ideal place for the outdoor life and traditions of southern Bohemia. The villagers are known for their kindness and willingness to share the history of the place.
3. Kostelec nad Vltavou (village)
Why is it worth a visit: On the right bank of the river there is Kostelec nad Vltavou, a village with a rich historical background. It is known for its natural beauties and peaceful surroundings, making it an ideal place to relax after exploring the bridge.
4. Water tank Orlík (water monument)
Why is worth a visit: This water tank is part of the Vltava River and offers not only beautiful views, but also options for various activities on the water. It is an ideal place to relax and enjoy natural karst.
5. Ambient forests (nature)
Why is worth a visit: Forests around the Zděkovsky Bridge provide a quiet space for walking and cycling. They are an ideal place for nature lovers who want to enjoy outdoor activities in harmony with nature.
This route offers a combination of historical, cultural and natural experiences that are ideal for a day trip to southern Bohemia.
Seasonal recommendations
Spring: In the spring season, Žďákovský most is transformed into a haven for nature lovers, as flowering shrubs and trees celebrate a new life. The sun shines warmer and the days become longer, which ensures ideal conditions for long walks. Although the tourist season is not yet fully present, you can enjoy a quiet view of the bridge without unnecessary crowds. We recommend a visit to the afternoon, where the sun offers the best lighting for photos and it is advisable to carry clothes to prevent the cool breeze.
Summer: In the summer months, Žďákovský most is a popular destination for visitors and locals. The sunny days offer ideal conditions for football matches in nearby meadows or for relaxing at the creek that flows under the bridge. Remember to wear protective sunglasses and plenty of water.
Autumn: In autumn, Žďákovský most offers a unique atmosphere when tree leaves are colored in golden and red shades. Sunshine days are warmer, but evenings get cold fast, creating ideal conditions for beautiful football games on the green lawn next to the bridge. Visit the memory during the day to enjoy warm sunlight and avoid cold evenings. Clothes with the possibility to add layers is the best choice this season.
Winter: During winter Žďákovský most offers a quiet and quiet environment where you can relax from chestnut leaves and nature enters your sleep. When the sun sets, the city receives a quiet atmosphere that is ideal for relaxing in the cold air. Visit the bridge during the day to enjoy dazzling sunlight and avoid long winter evenings. Warm clothes are essential for a comfortable visit as well as protection against moisture.
Visualizations and artistic views
The visualisations are generated by artificial intelligence and serve as inspiration.
Photos from the area
Real photos taken near the monument
Zdroj a licence jsou uvedeny u každého snímku.
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Sources and literature
Photos: Michal Ritter / CC BY-SA 3.0 — Wikimedia Commons. The author and licence also appear when you hover over the image.
Faktickým podkladem tohoto textu byl článek na Wikipedii, jehož autory jsou přispěvatelé Wikipedie. Článek je dostupný pod licencí CC BY-SA 4.0.
Location on the map
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