BERLIN (AP) — Workers have laid the final section of a massive new bridge across the Mosel River in western Germany that has drawn criticism from conservationists.

German Transport Minister Andreas Scheuer on Friday described the 1.7-kilometer (1 mile) bridge over the Mosel valley as a "masterpiece of German engineering."

The 175 million euro ($203 million) bridge is up to 160 meters (525 feet) high and contains some 32,000 metric tons (35,270 tons) of steel. Once it's completed next year, it will link Germany's Rhine-Main region with the Benelux countries of Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg.

Conservationists, however, have complained that the bridge ruins the landscape in the region, which is known for its picturesque vineyards that are popular with tourists.