Enchanting European Bridges

Prague – The Charles Bridge

The Charles Bridge is one of the most iconic attractions in the city of Prague. The beautiful historic sandstone structure crosses the Vltava river and connects Prague’s Old Town to its castle. Construction started in 1357, and it took 45 years to complete.

Luzern – Kapellbrücke

The oldest bridge in Europe Lucerne’s covered wooden bridges may be for pedestrian traffic only, but these iconic structures are one of the city’s most popular attractions. The beautiful structures span diagonally across the Reuss. Multicolored flowers line the sides for much of the year. The bridges contained interior paintings that date back to the 17th century, though a fire destroyed many of these in 1933.

Budapest – Chain Bridge

Budapest has several grand bridges spanning the spectacular Danube. Széchenyi Chain Bridge, which connects Pest to Buda, close to the castle, is the most impressive of all. This suspension bridge dates back to 1849, and was the first permanent bridge across the river. It’s open to both pedestrian and vehicular traffic, and has featured in several films and music videos.

Florence – Ponte Vecchio

This medieval arch bridge in Florence is one of Europe’s most famous. It dates back to 1345 and spans across Florence’s Arno River. The bridge is a true work of art and pleasing both to walk across and view from a distance. There is a private aerial walkway above the main thoroughfare, as well as several wooden shuttered shops lining either side.

London – London Bridge

London’s Tower Bridge is one of the city’s most popular attractions. It crosses the famous Thames close to the Tower of London and has become an iconic symbol for the city. Construction started in 1886, and it took eight years to complete. Today pedestrians and vehicles have free access to the main deck, though access to the Tower Bridge Exhibition requires an entrance fee.

Venice – Bridge of Sighs

Named by Lord Byron in the 19th Century, the Bridge of Sighs connects the old prisons of Venice to the interrogation rooms in the Doge’s Palace. It was so named as Byron suggested the prisoners would sign at the final view of Venice through the Bridge’s windows before being incarcerated. The white limestone bridge was built in 1602.

Mostar – Stari Most

One of Europe’s most Instagrammable bridge. Stari Most, simply meaning Old Bridge, stood in Mostar for 427 years, until Croat forces destroyed it in 1993. The city reopened the bridge in 2004, and many still consider it to be one of the finest examples of Islamic architecture in the Balkans.

About the Author

 Mahy Medhat

A storyteller with a wanderlust desire, who loves exploring the world with a penchant for culture and food. Mahy has been writing for numerous high-profile magazines and currently working on publishing her own book.