SPROGO

• Latitude: 55.3294
• Longitude: 10.9658
• Baltic Sea
• Marina in Denmark

Location: Denmark

Sprogø is a small, historically significant island located in the Great Belt (Storebælt) strait between the Danish islands of Funen and Zealand. The island is notable for its picturesque scenery, unique flora and fauna, and significant infrastructural developments, primarily the Great Belt Fixed Link, which connects the two larger islands via a bridge and tunnel system.

Description:

• Location: Sprogø is situated roughly at the midpoint of the Great Belt strait.
• Size: The island is relatively small, covering an area of about 38 hectares (0.38 square kilometers or about 94 acres).
• Geography: It features rugged coastlines, rocky terrain, and patches of greenery. The surrounding waters are part of the Baltic Sea.
• History: Sprogø has a deep historical background stretching back to medieval times. It once housed a lighthouse and was also used for defensive purposes. In the early 20th century, it was the site of a now-defunct women's institution, which has left a significant mark on its historical narrative.
• Current Use: Today, Sprogø is best known for its integration into the Great Belt Fixed Link, a major infrastructure project that connects Funen and Zealand.

Specification:

• Great Belt Fixed Link:

  • Components: The Fixed Link consists of a road suspension bridge (East Bridge), a railroad bridge (West Bridge), and a rail-road tunnel.
  • Total Length: The entire Fixed Link spans approximately 18 kilometers (11 miles).

• East Bridge: Connects Sprogø to Zealand.

  • Type: Suspension bridge.
  • Length: About 6,790 meters (22,277 feet).
  • Main Span: 1,624 meters (5,328 feet), making it one of the longest suspension bridge spans in the world.
  • Height: Pylons rise to 254 meters (833 feet).

• West Bridge: Connects Sprogø to Funen.

  • Type: Box girder bridge.
  • Length: About 6,611 meters (21,688 feet).
  • Railway: Includes two railway tracks.

• Tunnel: The tunnel primarily serves rail traffic.

  • Type: Bored tunnel.
  • Length: Approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles), making it one of the longest underwater tunnels in the world.

• Lighthouse:

  • There is a historic lighthouse on the island that has been operational since the 19th century.
  • The lighthouse still stands as a cultural and navigational landmark, although it is now automated.

• Environment:

  • Flora and Fauna: Sprogø hosts a variety of plant species, some of which are rare and protected. It also supports a diverse range of birds and marine life.
  • Conservation: Parts of the island are protected due to their ecological significance.

Sprogø serves as more than just a waypoint in the Great Belt Fixed Link. Its natural beauty, rich history, and vital role in Danish infrastructure make it a location of considerable interest.