The inauguration of the Porto Novo Bridge, which significantly reduced travel distances between Santa Cruz and Funchal, took place 35 years ago in a festive atmosphere.
At the time, the bridge was the largest viaduct in Madeira, measuring 1,149 meters in length, comprising 360 meters of viaduct and 789 meters of access roads. The ceremony was attended by a large crowd and the Santa Cruz Music Band.
Alberto João Jardim, then president of the Regional Government, described the project as a response to external interference and a technically spectacular structure, made possible by conditions of stability and national solidarity.
