Throughout time, people have been building bridges so that they can easily cross physical obstacles like rivers, canyons, valleys, and so on. Since ancient times, people were aware of their importance. Many of the bridges have even played an important role in historical events and the development of entire regions.
That is why much effort and thought was given in their making. Many of them are so complex that many people consider them architectural marvels. Then there are those whose appearance is immensely captivating. And there is the third part; they are as complex in their construction as they are captivating.
Here we have a list of some of the most famous bridges from around the world. Each of them with a story to tell, and have its distinct charm.
Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco
Probably the most famous bridge in the United States. The bridge is perfectly aligned with the San Francisco bay and feels like an integral part of the surrounding. Its red-orange color was chosen so that it would be more visible when the fog dropped in the bay.
Ponte Vecchio, Florence
The English translation for Ponte Vecchio is an “old bridge”. The bridge was built in 1345. It is the only bridge in Venice that wasn’t destroyed during the Second World War. The bridge is also known for the many shops that are placed on it. Centuries later, there are still shops on the very same bridge.
Tower Bridge, London
The bridge was completed in 1894 and stands as one of London’s greatest landmarks. The Tower Bridge features two towers that are connected at their upper levels. They stand at 65 meters. Plus the bridge can open so that ferries can pass.
Rialto Bridge, Venice
Rialto Bridge is the oldest of the four bridges on the Grand Canal in Venice. The bridge was constructed in 1591 as a replacement for a wooden bridge that was there before. However, its design was so audacious at that time that many predicted it would collapse. Luckily, that wasn’t the case and until today remains an architectural marvel admired by millions of people each year.
Charles Bridge, Prague
The bridge was opened for the public at the beginning of the 15th century. The Charles Bridge was built to connect the old town with the Prague Castle. More than two dozen statues are decorating the bridge which makes it Prague’s most notable landmark.
Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Australia
The bridge was opened for public in March 1932, and since then it is not just an essential landmark in Sydney, but a lifeline for its economic growth. The bridge is the largest steel bridge in the world, but at the same time, not the longest one. The bridge carries a railroad, road for vehicles, bike and walking lanes.
Stari Most, Mostar
The bridge was built by the Ottoman Turks and stood for 472 years until it was destroyed in 1993 during the Yugoslavian war. Today it is restored to its former glory and is one of the most important landmarks in the city of Mostar.
