For years, man has been trying to cross bridges to get from one point to another. By doing so, they give themselves a breathtaking view of rivers, oceans, mountains, and deserts. Bridges serve as a spectacular work of art. They are unique in their own way and are known for their outstanding architecture and amazing history.
Nowadays, bridges are not just designed as a means of transportation. They have served as a tourist attraction for people to see and be attracted to. Below are ten of the most unique bridges in the world featured in the List 25.
10. Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge
The Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge in Beijing stands as the longest bridge in the world, as recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records. Stretching a whopping 102 miles, the rail bridge is part of the Beijing-Shanghai High Speed Railway. Construction started in 2006 and was completed in 2011 and cost $8.5 billion.
9. Moses Bridge
Aptly called Moses Bridge, this stunning structure splits water into two. Located inside a 17th century fortress, the bridge is disguised and placed under the moat's waterline to make it invisible. This makes the people crossing seem like they are walking in water while the bridge blends in with the landscape.
8. Khaju Bridge
Constructed by the Persian King Shab Abbas II in the 17th century, Khaju Bridge features 23 arches and serving as a dam that controls the waters of the Zayandeh River. The bridge features a stone seat and pavilion all built for the pleasure of Shab Abbas.
7. Brooklyn Bridge
Since its completion in 1883, the Brooklyn Bridge has been a national historic landmark and symbol of New York. It connects Manhattan to Brooklyn crossing the East River. In 1884, P.T. Barnum led a group of circus animals which included a herd of 21 elephants proving its stability.
6. Sydney Harbour Bridge
Otherwise called the “coat hanger,” the Sydney Harbor Bridge was constructed in 1924 and was completed in 1932. The bridge was based on the proposal of Francis Greenway to construct a bridge that will connect the northern and southern shore of the harbor. Today, it is one of the most recognizable bridges in the world especially during Sydney Harbor New Year celebrations.
5. Pont Alexandre III
Located in Paris, construction of the Pont Alexandre III began in 1896 and was completed in 1900. Designed in the Art Noveau style, it features statues of nymphs, cherubs, winged horses, angels, ships, and vintage lamps along its sides making it as one of the world’s most decorated bridges. Although located in France, the bridge was named after Alexander the 3rd, Emperor of Russia, in honor of the Franco-Russian alliance.
4. Banpo Bridge
This picturesque bridge is located in Seoul and crosses the Han River. The bridge was actually constructed in 1982 but a project aimed at reviving the area was launched in 2007 and was completed in 2009. Both sides of the bridge features fountains which shoots 190 tons of water from its 380 nozzles and transforms into a rainbow with 10,000 LED lights at night.
3. Golden Gate Bridge
Undoubtedly one of the most famous bridges in the world, the Golden Gate Bridge was constructed in 1933 and completed in 1937. At the onset, it broke a couple of records establishing itself as the longest and tallest suspension bridge. Crossing the bridge gives one a breathtaking sight of the Pacific Ocean.
2. Tower Bridge
In the 19th century, London Bridge served as the only gateway to crossing the Thames River. But as the east side of London started to become a busy port, there was a need for another bridge. Inaugurated by the Prince of Wales in 1894, the Tower Bridge features two towers at the ends of each bank and has a middle section that can be raised to allow ships to past.
1. Ponte Vecchio
Located in the city of Florence in Italy, the Ponte Vecchio is a medieval bridge that dates back to the Roman Period. Destroyed by a flood in 1333, it was reconstructed in 1345 by Tadeo Gaddi. The bridge is so popular because of the houses that lie along the stretch of its spans, some of which are prodding out to the side.
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