The stone bridge on the Valdai-Kresttsy line is now abandoned and hidden in foliage, but its architecture still attracts tourists. This eighteen-meter bridge was built between 1914 and 1916, during World War I. Its history is linked to the construction of the supports of another forgotten bridge over the Volkhov at Rurik's Hill. The railway lines of Valdai, Narva, and St. Petersburg were supposed to connect in Novgorod, passing over two common bridges over the Volkhov and Msta, and diverging beyond the village of Bronitsa. This bridge is located on the Valdai-Narva line. The line was last used in 2011, and the bridge itself in 2006.
The reinforced concrete structure on stone supports was likely assembled by hand. Extensive work was carried out: pre-processed stone blocks were numbered and laid in a specific order. A unique binding composition allowed the bridge to stand for over a hundred years in a humid climate, enduring active use, including during the Great Patriotic War.
From the height of the bridge, there is a magnificent view of the river and the surrounding untouched forests.
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