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Ponte Hercílio Luz: Florianópolis's Iconic Landmark

Discover the iconic Ponte Hercílio Luz in Florianópolis: a historic landmark offering stunning views and a glimpse into Brazil's architectural heritage.

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The Ponte Hercílio Luz is a historic suspension bridge and a symbol of Florianópolis, Brazil. Completed in 1926, it connects the island of Santa Catarina to the mainland and offers stunning panoramic views. After extensive restoration, it reopened to pedestrian and vehicle traffic, inviting visitors to experience its beauty and historical significance.

A brief summary to Ponte Hercílio Luz

  • Florianópolis, Centro, State of Santa Catarina, 88010-400, BR

Local tips

  • Visit during sunset for breathtaking views as the sun reflects off the water and illuminates the bridge.
  • Take a stroll through Parque da Luz near the bridge to enjoy leisure areas and capture beautiful photos.
  • Check out the bridge's illumination at night, when hundreds of lights create a stunning spectacle.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the city center (Centro) in Florianópolis, the Ponte Hercílio Luz is easily accessible by foot. Start at Praça XV de Novembro and walk northeast along Avenida Osvaldo Rodrigues Cabral. The bridge will become visible in a few minutes. Continue along the avenue until you reach the entrance of the bridge. The walk is approximately 1.2 km and takes about 15-20 minutes. There are no costs involved in walking to the bridge.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Ponte Hercílio Luz via public transport from the central bus terminal (Terminal Integracao Centro - TICEN), take any bus heading towards 'Continente' or 'Ponte Hercílio Luz'. These buses can be caught along Avenida Jornalista Rubens de Arruda Ramos. A typical bus fare is around R$4.50. Ask the driver to notify you when you reach the stop closest to the bridge. The bus ride usually takes about 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Florianópolis. From the city center, a short taxi ride to Ponte Hercílio Luz will cost approximately R$15-R$25, depending on traffic and the specific location. The ride usually takes about 5-10 minutes. Be sure to confirm the fare or check the app estimate before starting your trip.

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Discover more about Ponte Hercílio Luz

Ponte Hercílio Luz is more than just a bridge; it's an emblem of Florianópolis, representing the city's rich history and architectural ingenuity. This majestic suspension bridge spans the bay, linking the island of Santa Catarina to the mainland. Completed in 1926, it was the first bridge to connect the island to the mainland and is the longest suspension bridge in Brazil, with a total length of 821 meters. The bridge is named after Hercílio Luz, the former governor of Santa Catarina, who envisioned it to solidify Florianópolis as the state capital. Its construction faced numerous challenges, but it ultimately became a symbol of progress and connection for the region. The bridge was designed by the firm of Robinson and Steinman, with David Steinman as the lead engineer. The materials were brought from the United States, and the construction involved a team of American technicians and local workers. After being closed for repairs due to corrosion, the bridge underwent extensive restoration and reopened in 2019. Today, it welcomes pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles, offering panoramic views of the city, the bay, and the surrounding landscapes. Walking across the bridge provides a unique experience, with the gentle sway and the sounds of the wind creating a connection with the environment. The bridge is particularly enchanting at sunset, when the sky's colors reflect on the water. Visitors can explore the Parque da Luz located near the bridge, which offers leisure areas and beautiful views. Informative plaques detail the bridge's history and significance, providing an educational experience. The Ponte Hercílio Luz stands as a testament to engineering and a reminder of Florianópolis's vibrant past.

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