In the charming town of Redondela, nestled in the scenic province of Pontevedra, Spain, stands a marvel of 19th-century engineering that continues to captivate both locals and visitors alike – the Viaduto de Madrid. Known locally as the Viaducto de Madrid, this iconic structure is a testament to human ingenuity and the transformative power of the industrial age.
The Viaduto de Madrid was inaugurated on June 30, 1876, marking a significant milestone in the development of the railway network in Galicia. The Spanish government had granted the region its own railway network on May 12, 1863, but it wasn't until thirteen years later that the first train traversed the Vigo-Ourense route, crossing this magnificent viaduct.
The challenging topography of the Redondela valley necessitated the construction of a viaduct to bridge the gap. The initial proposal to build a bridge in the parish of Saxamonde was abandoned due to the difficult terrain. The final design had to overcome several obstacles, including the height of the viaduct, steep gradients of up to 2%, and a winding path with curves of up to 800 meters in radius.
The Viaduto de Madrid is a striking combination of iron and stone, materials chosen for their resilience against the region's frequent rainfall. The structure rises to a height of 32 meters and spans a length of 411 meters, with 255.89 meters comprising the metal section and the remainder constructed from stone. The stone pillars, filled with pinewood for cost efficiency, support the iron framework, which is painted a distinctive red, setting it apart from the grey hues of the nearby Viaducto de Pontevedra.
The French company Compagnie de Fives-Lille was responsible for the technological equipment, and the construction was overseen by architect Augusto Cazaux. Despite local myths suggesting the involvement of Gustave Eiffel, the renowned engineer behind the Eiffel Tower, historical records confirm that the project was executed by Parent Schaken Hovel & Caillet, later known as Compagnie des Fives-Lilles.
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The construction of the Viaduto de Madrid is not without its dark chapters. One of the contractors, Pedro Floriani, faced financial ruin when he was informed that he would not be paid for his work due to technical reasons. In a desperate act, Floriani attempted to end his life by jumping from the viaduct but survived, albeit with life-altering injuries. Tragically, other financiers of the project, Francisco Buenagua Magulegui and Juan Praria Rozaza, were not as fortunate and succeeded in their suicide attempts.
After serving the railway route for nearly a century, the Viaduto de Madrid fell into disuse in the 1970s. By 1978, efforts were underway to declare it a Bien de Interés Cultural (Asset of Cultural Interest), although this process remains unresolved. Over the years, the viaduct suffered from neglect, with rust and peeling paint becoming a common sight. To prevent further deterioration, a green mesh was installed to catch falling debris.
In 2012, a comprehensive restoration project was initiated, culminating in 2014 after eighteen months of meticulous work and an investment of 3.8 million euros. The restoration aimed to preserve the viaduct's historical integrity while repurposing it for pedestrian use, allowing both locals and tourists to appreciate its grandeur up close.
Today, the Viaduto de Madrid stands as a proud symbol of Redondela's industrial heritage. Its towering presence over the town offers a unique vantage point, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape. As you stroll along the viaduct, you can't help but marvel at the intricate latticework of its iron framework, a reminder of the craftsmanship and vision that brought this structure to life.
Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, the Viaduto de Madrid is a must-see attraction in Redondela. Its storied past, architectural brilliance, and the perseverance of those who built and restored it make it a true gem of Galicia.
In conclusion, the Viaduto de Madrid is more than just a bridge; it's a bridge to the past, a testament to human resilience, and a beacon of Redondela's rich cultural tapestry. As you walk its length, take a moment to reflect on the stories it holds and the generations it has witnessed, standing steadfast through the sands of time.
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