Bridges are supposed to link two points together first of all and their function is the convenience actually. If you don’t want to cross long distances or uncomfortable landscapes for driving or walking, you have a great alternative – yes, the bridge. These constructions are an integral part of urban infrastructure around the world. But you can also come across some of them in the jungles or even in the mountains. Here is our list of 10 of the coolest bridges to see in your life, among them steel masterpieces and ancient viaducts.
1. Oliveire Bridge, San Paulo, Brazil
This bridge is the landmark of San Paulo and is unique in its kind due to its X-shaped design. Oliveire Bridge spans the Pinheiros River and its total length is 138 m. The X-shaped support tower holds the decks, which are fixed by 144 cables and is a fine example of modern engineering. The construction was completed in 2008 and since then it has linked Brooklin and Real Parque districts of San Paulo.
2. The Pearl Bridge: Kobe-Naruto, Japan
This suspension bridge is the longest in the world and it’s not surprising that the construction took 12 years. If you are in Japan for a long stay, then visiting this place is a must, because it’s a unique chance to have a look at Naruto whirlpools.
3. The Oresund Bridge, Sweden-Denmark
This is a completely unique bridge in its kind, because it combines 2 types of constructions. The artificial island in the middle of Oresund strait is the point where the cable-stayed bridge changes into a tunnel. Being 5 miles long, the bridge links Malmo with Copenhagen. The tunnel part of it begins right in the middle of the Oresund strait, on an artificial island. The bridge even contains a double-track railway and is an outstanding structure, which is set apart from all the other representatives of its kind.
4. Charles Bridge, Prague, Czech Republic
This is a medieval gothic stone construction and once had a special importance as the only means to cross the Vltava River. With its three towers the bridge has a real architectural value, besides its main function to link Prague Castle to the city’s Old Town. The tower from the Old Town side is a fine example of a civic gothic-style building. Nowadays the bridge is for pedestrians only, where you can buy souvenirs or meet lots of artists and musicians all year round.
5. Millau Viaduct, France
The trouble of getting to this bridge is really worth it. Until 2012 Millau Viaduct proudly holds the title of the tallest bridge in the world. Now Baluarte Bridge in Mexico is considered to be the tallest, but it doesn’t mean that Millau Viaduct is no longer a famous tourist attraction. Actually the best views are from under the viaduct. Driving across the bridge compared with the views from underneath is no big deal.
6. Langkawi Sky Bridge, Malaysia
This steel suspension bridge in Palau Island is for pedestrians only and is located on Gunung Mat Chinchang Mountain. The twisted bridge deck spans over the landscape, giving the tourists a chance to marvel at the spectacular view.
7. The Forth Railway Bridge, Scotland
This bridge is a fine example of Victorian structural engineering. It even symbolises the summit of the industrial revolution in Scotland. The bridge is a link between Edinburgh and Fife and is the first major steel bridge in Britain. The Forth Railway Bridge requires constant renovations and there are even opinions that the end of these renovations will never be in sight.
8. Ponte Vecchio, Florence, Italy
Ponte Vecchio is not all but a structure; it’s proudly unique to Europe, being its oldest stone bridge. Ponte Vecchio features three segmental arches and is famous for many shops built along it. It used to be a place, which housed butchers and goldsmiths. Nowadays souvenir vendors and art dealers occupy the bridge shops and turn this place into a favorite tourist attraction.
9. Trift Bridge, Gadmen, Switzerland
Frankly speaking, it’s not that easy to get to this bridge. You have to ride a cable car and then do a 90-minute hike. But the award is beyond anything. The construction seems somewhat simple compared with the above-mentioned bridges of modern architecture. The reason is that it’s high in the Swiss Alps, and the people who get here are either nature lovers or adventurous hikers, which appreciate the breathtaking views more than the design of the bridge.
10. Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco
The Golden Gate Bridge is the iconic landmark of San Francisco and it’s truly a cutting-edge mix of architectural ingenuity and engineering. The bridge is mainly set apart due to its distinct bright color, which is meant to make it more visible in case of thick fog, which is normal for San Francisco Bay. The bridge also has a sad reputation for being a famous place for those who have decided to commit suicide, but the crowds of tourists still don’t hesitate to visit and take photos here.
Related posts:
20 Unbelievably Pretty Streets From Around The World
9 Places Where People Live the Longest
10 Of The Best Cities To Study Abroad
10 Lovely Hello Kitty Inspired Travel Destinations
9 Family Travel Ideas for 2015
10 of The Biggest and Most Colorful Festivals In The World
14 Heavenly Places on Earth That Look Like Unreal
10 Of The Most Beautiful Music Venues In The World
