Djurdjevica Tara bridge
One of the deepest canyons in the world, the Tara River gorge snakes along 48 miles (78 kms) of a total river length of 89 miles (144 kms). Completed in 1940, the Tara crossing is the highest and largest bridge in the region and includes an approach viaduct of 4 arches leading to a main span span of 448 feet (136.43 mtrs). It was this large arch over the river that was blown up in 1942 by Partisan’s looking to block an Italian-Chetnik offensive. A bridge engineer, Lazar Jaukovic, aided in the span’s demise and was eventually captured by the Italians and executed on the bridge. The arch was rebuilt after World War II in 1946.
The height of Tara bridge is somewhat murky. Some sources have it as low as 443 feet (135 mtrs) and as high as 564 feet (172 mtrs). The truth is probably somewhere in-between. Until I can travel to Montenegro and measure it myself, I will list it at 459 feet (140 mtrs). Tara bridge was designed and constructed by Mijat Trojanovi with Isaac Russo as the chief engineer.
Rafting is extremely popular on the Tara River and a great way to experience the bridge from below. Trips leave from Splaviste and can last from 1 to 3 days depending on the package you choose.
