viaduktid

A viaduct is a long bridge designed to carry a railway or road over a valley, gorge, or low-lying land. Unlike a bridge that spans a river or other body of water, a viaduct's primary purpose is to maintain a consistent elevation for a transport route, allowing it to cross obstacles without significant gradients. The term "viaduct" originates from the Latin words "via" meaning road and "ducere" meaning to lead.

Viaducts are typically constructed from masonry, concrete, or steel. They often consist of a series of arches or spans supported by piers or columns. The design of a viaduct is heavily influenced by the terrain it crosses and the load it is intended to carry. Historically, stone and brick were common materials, leading to many iconic examples such as the Crumlin Viaduct in Wales or the Galton Bridge in England. Modern viaducts frequently employ reinforced concrete and steel for greater strength and span capabilities.

Notable examples of viaducts include the Millau Viaduct in France, which is the tallest bridge in the world and crosses a river valley, and the Glenfinnan Viaduct in Scotland, famous for its scenic beauty and its role in the Harry Potter films. Viaducts are essential infrastructure projects that enable efficient transportation networks by overcoming geographical challenges.