Corinth Canal Features Two Unusual Submersible Bridges

The Corinth Canal, a narrow waterway that separates the Peloponnese from mainland Greece, is crossed by two unusual bridges. Instead of a conventional drawbridge that lifts, these structures submerge and rise. Each bridge sits at one end of the canal and allows cars to travel while ships pass beneath.

The bridges feature a 108.3‑foot wooden roadway that is 23 feet wide, including two lanes for traffic and a footpath between them. Two hydraulic lifts on each side raise and lower the bridge. When lowered, the roadway sits 26 feet below the water level. The bridge can support a uniform load of 7,119 pounds per square foot, making it sturdy enough for heavy vehicles.

The vertical speed of the bridge is 13 feet per minute, so it takes about three and a half minutes to sink or lift. For safety, the bridge is submerged 15 minutes before a ship arrives. This timing can cause traffic queues, especially when many cars are trying to cross at the same time.

The bridges attract visitors. On a recent trip, the author and their partner were among dozens of people standing on either side to watch the bridge move. Restaurants on both sides of the canal offer outdoor seating where diners can view the action. The spectacle draws crowds and adds to the tourist appeal of the region.

Unlike a typical drawbridge, the submersible design does not limit the height of passing ships. However, the deep lowering of the bridge means large vessels with tall keels or masts may be restricted. The Greek engineers chose this solution because it eliminates the obstruction that a raised bridge would create.