6 Iconic Bridges Around the World - Can you guess what favourites made it to the list?
(Hint: The Bridge to Terabithia isn't on here!)
It's time to bridge your knowledge because they're not just functional, bridges can become one of a place's key identifiers! Spanning rivers, straits, and valleys, these architectural marvels connect communities, cultures, and even continents. For those from the Telford, UK, area, Thomas Telford's engineering prowess will be familiar. In this blog post, we're looking a little further afield to travel to 6 iconic bridges around the world. (Why? Because we miss being on holiday and don't have one booked until long into next year!)
Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, USA
There will always be a special place in my heart for suspension bridges. They just feel like the most exciting kind of bridge, when suspended over a deep valley/ ocean/ river. Completed in 1937, the bridge is now an iconic symbol of the city. It spans the Golden Gate Strait (ah, hence the name), connecting San Francisco to Marin County. You'd recognise it by its orange colour and art deco design. For those who, like me, cannot afford to see San Francisco's bridge, you could always drive across Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol for a small toll fare. It won't take you long, but it's a good two minutes.
Tower Bridge, London, UK
We're stopping off back home because London is a great city, right? Some of its rich history is encapsulated by this bridge. Built in 1894, this bascule and suspension bridge spans the River Thames, connecting the boroughs of Tower Hamlets and Southwark. Two iconic towers? A moving, functional, beautiful and busy bridge in one of the Financial Capitals of the world? Love it!
Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney, Australia
We have a long journey ahead of us, as we travel 'down under'. Completed in 1932, this steel through-arch bridge spans Sydney Harbour and has become part of the skyline, connecting the central business district with the North Shore.
Akashi Kaikyō Bridge, Kobe, Japan
My ignorance is about to show here... I recognised the photo, but I had no idea what it was called... or where it was located. Embarrassing.
So you don't make the same faux-pas I did, it's worth noting this also goes by the name 'Pearl Bridge'. Completed in 1998, this suspension bridge spans the Akashi Strait, connecting the city of Kobe to Awaji Island. It's not any old suspension bridge. It's an impressive 1,991 meters long, meaning it holds the title of the longest central span of any suspension bridge in the world. (Kind of puts dear little Clifton Bridge to shame.)
Millau Viaduct, Millau, France
Trivia time! What is the difference between a bridge and a viaduct? (I know, it sounds like the start of a nerdy joke.)
Bridges are built across rivers or arms of the sea, whereas viaducts tend to cross valleys and low lying areas where there may or may not be a river. An aqueduct is a bridge for water and a viaduct is a bridge for road or railway.
Now we've clarified that, back to the details. Designed by Sir Norman Foster and completed in 2004, this modern, cable-stayed bridge spans the Tarn Valley, connecting the cities of Clermont-Ferrand and Béziers.
Since I've been suggesting cheap alternatives to these amazing destinations, I recommend Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, Wales. Sure, it's an aqueduct, not a viaduct, but it's pretty and you can even canoe along it. (I know this because I've been - not to brag or anything...) If you have your heart set on a viaduct, we can't forget the one from Harry Potter: Scotland's Glenfinnan Viaduct. (I haven't been to this one yet, but it's on my list.)
While we're in Scotland, actually, we must mention the bridge linking to the Isle of Skye (via A87). For those road trip lovers, this has to be a must-do. However, be sure to check the local weather report and councils – as the bridge can close if the conditions are too dangerous.
Rialto Bridge, Venice, Italy
Just the name of it is romantic. Completed in 1591, this stone arch bridge spans the Grand Canal, connecting the districts of San Marco and San Polo. With its graceful arches and bustling market stalls, the Rialto Bridge is a timeless symbol of the Sinking City.
(Cheap alternative to Venice is Birmingham, UK, because, surprisingly, we have more canals. And thicker accents.)
Final Thoughts on Iconic Bridges Around the World
These iconic bridges around the world not only facilitate transportation but also serve as landmarks that define the cities and cultures they connect. We've only scratched the surface of the unique story behind each of these bridges that tells of engineering innovation, cultural significance, and the human spirit's ability to overcome challenges in the pursuit of connectivity. Did we miss any?
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