The El Marco/La Codosera bridge is a short wooden bridge that crosses the Abrilongo River, connecting two countries in different time zones.
The El Marco/La Codosera bridge is a tiny wooden structure spanning the Abrilongo River, linking two nations in different time zones: Spain (CET) and Portugal (WET/WEST).
Those who venture across what’s been dubbed the world’s smallest international bridge will hop between countries in mere seconds whilst their watch changes by an entire hour.
The modest crossing, measuring just 3.2 metres in length, joins the Spanish village of La Codosera in the south to Portugal’s El Marco, reports the Express.
According to Fascinating Spain, the tiny crossing was constructed by local residents centuries ago.
Originally, it was nothing more than basic wooden planks to traverse the narrow waterway.
They explained: “Although with the passing of time, elements were incorporated that have given stability to the bridge (and security to the neighbours who cross it), it was not until 2008 that it was completely remodelled.
“The smallest international bridge in the world was then created, from where, in a matter of seconds, you go from one country to another.”
“The bridge currently has a footbridge and reinforcements that prevent it from being swept away if the river Abrilongo rises.
“Other details were also added to emphasise the peculiarity of this being a border bridge: on each side of the bridge, a stone was placed with the E for Spain and the P for Portugal, so that it indicates which country you are in when you cross it.”
Among other remarkable bridges worldwide is a £3.4billion crossing between two nations that charges travellers £50 to use.