There are thousands of structures around the world which are built over the rivers and seas to link the banks, ranging from ancient to modern, but some are more spectacular than the others. Some of them are engineering marvels while some others are structures of beauty. Here we’re going to list some of them which have fascinated visitors from far and wide.
The Tower Bridge, London – Built in the late 19th Century, this bridge will make it to any list worth note. Not just a marvel of engineering which has stood the test of time, the bridge is spectacular because of its sheer size and majesty. A combination of suspension as well as bascule structures, this bridge is special because its designer, Horace Jones, kept the essence of busy Thames in mind while designing it; its 2 bascules can be lifted to accommodate big ships and then brought back to a pedestrian bridge within minutes.
The Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco – One of the most enduring symbols of American design, this suspension bridge is over the Golden Gate Strait, which is the channel between San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean. Possibly the most photographed bridge in the world, this bridge is also a miracle of technology. Built in 1937, the Golden Gate Bridge with a span of 4200 feet, held the record of the longest suspension bridge for a long time. The six lane roadway is hung midair with the help of cables that run through the two towers and are fixed in concrete at each end.
Ponte Vecchio, Florence – Literally meaning ‘the Old Bridge’ Ponte Vecchio is one of the oldest bridges known to mankind, that survives in present times too. Originally built during the Roman period, the bridge has been rebuilt two or three times, the last reconstruction happened in 1345. A landmark of Florence, this bridge is unique because it has shops built alongside which make it a marketplace besides a thoroughfare. Built over the Arno River, the Ponte Vecchio’s three arches are recognised worldwide.
Millau Viaduct, France – Built near the French city of Millau, the Millau Viaduct spans river Tarn in Southern France and is the tallest bridge in the world. It is said that to travel on this bridge is akin to flying because of its spectacular height of 1125 feet above the Tarn valley. One of the modern bridges in our list, this viaduct was ready in 2004 at a cost of approximately 400 million Euros.
We will continue this list in our next edition and bring more modern day marvels to your attention.