Bridges are described as a structure built to span and provide passage over physical obstacles such as a road, valley or body of water. Of course, the final design of the bridge varies in accordance with its function and the nature of the surrounding terrain, with some of the earliest bridges comprising stones or simply logs in a river.
However, today, not only do some bridges serve their purpose, but they also comprise authentic works of art or structures of physical beauty which transform their surroundings or successfully blend in with nature. Here are some examples of the world’s most beautiful and unique bridges.
Rakotz Bridge – Germany
This impressive bridge, located in the 200-acre gothic style Kromlauer Park in Kromlau, was built around 1860. It is called the ” Rakotzbrücke” but is more popularly known as the “Devil’s Bridge” and consists of an arch bridge made entirely of Basalt stone also used to build various other features in the park. It is no longer open to the public to ensure its preservation, however, with the reflection on the water’s surface creating a flawless circle, it is certainly very beautiful.
Living Root Bridges – India
Henderson Waves Bridge – Singapore
The Helix Bridge – Singapore
Singapore is also home to the Helix Bridge comprising a pedestrian bridge crossing Singapore River and connecting Marina Centre with Marina South in the Marina Bay. If features a double helix structure modeled on DNA, the first of its kind in the world. These two opposing spiral steel members are accompanied by canopies consisting of fritted-glass and perforated steel mesh which are incorporated along parts of the inner spiral to provide shelter and seating for pedestrians. In addition, four strategically located viewing platforms across the bridge provide stunning views of the marina and a series of lights highlight the unique double helix structure that the bridge features.
Aiola Island Bridge Bar – Austria
As the name indicates, not only does this bridge provide passage across the Mur River in Graz, Austria, it also features a trendy bar, sunbathing area, coffee bar, open-air theater and children’s play area right in the center. Built in 2003, it was designed by New York artist Vito Acconci who created a structure with an organically curved façade featuring triangular facets of either Nirosta steel panels or flat glass panels. Thanks to this innovative bridge, Aiola Island now comprises a popular tourist attraction.
Banpo Bridge Water Fountain – South Korea
Banpo Bridge, also known as the Moonlight Rainbow Fountain, spans the Han River in Seoul connecting the Seocho and Yongsan districts. It was built as part of a project to revive and allure tourists to the area. What makes the Banpo Bridge so unique is that it was actually built on top of the existing Jamsu Bridge to form part of a double-decker bridge. Later 380 LED nozzles, shooting out 190 tons of water per minute, were added on either side. The water is pumped directly from the river 20 meters below the deck and shoots out as far as 43 meters horizontally which, thanks to the 200 lights installed on the bridge, create a wonderful rainbow effect at night.
Langkawi Sky Bridge – Malaysia
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Kintai Bridge – Japan
Peace Bridge – Calgary
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