By: E Cat
Bridges are transportation structures that connect mountains, gorges, and water bodies, bringing great convenience to our lives. Since primitive times, humans have known to use trees as bridges to cross various natural obstacles. Today, with diverse cultures and architectural techniques around the world, bridge construction also showcases distinct local characteristics. Have you seen any of the following ten bridges? Do any of them particularly capture your heart? This time we present Part 1, introducing five of them, with the remaining five to follow next time. Each has its own unique charm — why not check them out on your next trip?
Cherrapunji Living Root Bridges
In Cherrapunji in northeastern India, where locals revere nature, they build bridges without using a single brick or tile. They tie thick ropes between trees on either side of rivers or mountain gorges, then guide the aerial roots of the trees to grow around the ropes. Gradually, the trees grow along the ropes, forming a natural bridge. These living root bridges, set against the surrounding rainforest scenery, make you feel as if you’ve stepped into a mystical realm of elves — a truly magical experience.
Spain: Dragon’s Back Coast
Gaztelugatxe is a small sea island near the coastal town of Bermeo in Spain. It is connected to the mainland by a man-made footpath, at the end of which lies the San Juan de Gaztelugatxe monastery, built in the 10th century. The winding path resembles the Great Wall, and reaching the monastery involves climbing 237 steps. Legend has it that if you walk these steps with your loved one and ring the monastery bell three times together, your love will last forever.
Stari Most (Old Bridge)
Stari Most is located in Bosnia and Herzegovina, a 16th-century bridge that spans the Neretva River. However, the ancient bridge was destroyed on November 9, 1993, during the Bosnian War. Later, a reconstruction project was undertaken by the local government, and it reopened on July 23, 2004. The following year, in 2005, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Scotland: Glenfinnan Viaduct
The image might look familiar — yes, this is the Glenfinnan Viaduct in Scotland, the bridge that the Hogwarts Express steam train crosses in the Harry Potter films. This viaduct connects the gorges between Fort William and Mallaig, and the only way to cross it is by taking the heritage Jacobite steam train. But be warned, the round-trip fare isn’t cheap, so plan your travel budget in advance.
USA: Benson Bridge
Multnomah Falls is the tallest waterfall in Oregon, USA, with a total drop of 620 feet (189 meters), divided into two sections. Between the two levels of the falls stands a pedestrian bridge called Benson Bridge. Walking across it, you can not only feel the majestic power of the falls but also admire the beautiful stream formed by the upper falls and the lovely fish swimming within.
More Travel Fun Facts
【Travel Fun Fact】Painting an Entire Village with Flowers by Hand — Mexico’s 200,000-Square-Meter Mural
【Travel Fun Fact】A Moving Capsule Hotel
【Travel Fun Fact】India’s Human-Powered Ferris Wheel
【Travel Fun Fact】Traveling with Pets — The World’s First Pet Terminal
【Travel Fun Fact】Flying with a View — Airplane with Floor-to-Ceiling Windows
【Travel Fun Fact】Magical London — Did You Know London Could Look Like This?