This engineering project was designed by architect Alberto Palacios and inaugurated in 1893. It continues to operate with most of the original structure. It connects the town of Portugalete (left bank) with the Las Arenas district (Getxo, right bank), across the Nervión estuary, having initially been built to connect the two spas installed on the two banks of the river. The horizontal beam was demolished in 1937 to prevent Franco’s troops from crossing, and both towers were damaged. The bridge was restored and became fully operational again in 1941.

Different repair and restoration work was performed in 2004, including the passenger boarding and ticket sales areas and the machinery and electronic controls.

The ceiling also doubles as a terrace area open to the public with views of the hanging bridge. The four terraces had filtration problems. The flooring platforms were removed to discover the concrete supports, which were waterproofed with grey ZORPIT-IMPER-POL before the platforms were replaced.