The bridge was originally designed to span a dry valley, but the creation of the Orlík dam flooded the area, turning it into a river crossing.
The structure utilized approximately 5,000 cubic meters of concrete during its construction.
It is nicknamed the 'Old Bridge' by locals, distinguishing it from newer infrastructure in the region.
The reinforced concrete arch was constructed using a pioneering method of hollow box sections to reduce dead weight.
During the final stages of World War II, the bridge remained intact despite strategic efforts to disable regional transport corridors.
Podolský most is a reinforced concrete arch bridge spanning the Vltava River near Písek, Czechia. Completed in 1943, it stands 51 meters above the water level of the Orlík Reservoir. The bridge features a main arch with a span of 150 meters, making it one of the largest concrete arch structures in the country. It replaced an older chain suspension bridge that was moved to Stádlec after the reservoir was filled. The bridge carries the I/29 road and serves as a vital transit link across the river canyon. Its engineering design incorporates a distinct slender profile to manage the geological conditions of the deep valley. It is frequently cited as a significant example of mid-20th-century Czech civil engineering.
The shoreline accessible from the bridge approach provides the best vantage point of the entire arch profile.
Park your vehicle in the designated lay-bys near the bridge ends to safely photograph the structure.
Walk along the pedestrian sidewalks on the bridge for a clear view of the deep Vltava canyon.
Combine the visit with a trip to the nearby Stádlec chain bridge, which was relocated from this original site.
Do not attempt to climb onto the structural framework or parapets for photos.
