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Bridge · Nova Gorica, Goriška
Solkan Bridge
Stone railway bridge over the Soča in Solkan, with an 85-meter arch — the largest arch in the world on a stone railway bridge. It is part of the Bohinj line, opened in 1906.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Solkan Bridge
The Solkan Bridge crosses the Soča River in the Solkan suburb north of Nova Gorica’s center. Built between 1904 and 1905 for the Bohinj line, the railroad that linked Central Europe to the port of Trieste, it is about 220 meters long and has a main arch of 85 meters made from more than 4,500 carved stone blocks. It is the largest stone arch in the world on a railway bridge.
The original design called for an 80-meter arch, increased during construction because of the terrain. The bridge opened in 1906 with the line. In August 1916, during the Battles of the Isonzo, the Austro-Hungarian army blew up the central arch to stop the Italian advance. A temporary steel structure kept trains running until 1927, when the arch was rebuilt in stone according to the original design.
Beside it runs a more recent road bridge, from which you get a good view of the arch over the Soča’s green water. Below the bridge the river is used for kayaking and canoeing. On some summer weekends a historic steam train runs the Bohinj line and crosses the bridge; check the dates before you go.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Half an hour to an hour to see the bridge from the viewpoints and the riverbank.
Best time
On clear days, when the Soča is at its greenest; in the late afternoon the side light enhances the stone arch. In summer the river has many kayaks.
How to get there
It is in Solkan, about 3 km from downtown Nova Gorica, next to the road to the Soča valley. There is parking near the riverbank.
Tip
Cross the road bridge on foot to see the arch from the side, and descend to the riverbank to see it from below.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Solkan Bridge
How large is the arch of the Solkan bridge?
85 meters. It is the largest stone arch in the world on a railway bridge.
Does the Solkan bridge still have trains?
Yes. It is part of the Bohinj line, between Jesenice and Nova Gorica, and on some summer weekends it receives a historic steam train.
Where to see the Solkan bridge?
From the adjacent road bridge and from the Soča riverbank in Solkan, about 3 km from downtown Nova Gorica.