It is the only bridge of its kind in the world that still uses the original eye-bar chain design in its primary structure.
The bridge was named after Hercílio Luz, a former governor of Santa Catarina, who died before its completion.
During its construction, all the steel materials were imported from the United States.
The bridge remained closed for 37 years while undergoing one of the most complex structural restoration projects in Brazilian history.
The structure weighs approximately 5,000 tons, supported by two main independent cable systems.
It was declared a National Historical Heritage site by the Brazilian government in 1997.
The Hercílio Luz Bridge is the longest suspension bridge in Brazil, connecting the island of Santa Catarina to the mainland of Florianópolis. Construction began in 1922 and the bridge was officially opened in 1926 to replace the ferry system. It features two massive 75-meter-high towers and a central span measuring 339.4 meters. After being closed to traffic in 1982 due to structural decay, it underwent a decades-long restoration process. It reopened to public pedestrian and vehicular access in December 2019. The bridge is an official historical landmark, recognized for its eye-bar chain suspension system. Today, it serves as an iconic symbol of the city and a functioning thoroughfare for buses, pedestrians, and cyclists.
The observation deck at the Parque da Luz provides the most comprehensive panoramic view of the full span.
Walk across the bridge during the evening to see the synchronized LED lighting displays.
Visit the adjacent 'Parque da Luz' for an elevated perspective of the bridge against the city skyline.
Bring a windbreaker, as the open structure is exposed to strong gusts coming from the bay.
Attempting to climb the structural steel supports or entering restricted maintenance areas.
Maintain pedestrian lanes; do not obstruct the path for cyclists or commuters.
