When you think of the top 10 castles that still stand after centuries, you probably picture stone walls, lofty towers, and brave knights. But what if some of those grand structures were actually forged with a little help from the Prince of Darkness? Below we explore ten infamous fortresses and bridges that folklore claims were erected by the Devil himself – a mix of stone, myth, and mischievous contracts.

10 Yester Castle: East Lothian, Scotland

Yester Castle, perched in East Lothian, Scotland, dates back to 1267 when Sir Hugo de Giffard, a notorious alchemist, commissioned its construction. According to legend, the castle’s completion was achieved with an army of goblins dispatched by the Devil himself.

Sir Hugo was a controversial figure, often rumored to be a sorcerer, which earned him the nickname “The Wizard of Yester.” Such a reputation makes the tale of demonic assistance all the more believable to the superstitious.

Much of the original fortress has crumbled, yet the Goblin Ha’—the hall where Sir Hugo allegedly performed his secret rites—still stands. Visitors report eerie sensations, and locals have sealed a stairway leading from the hall into the hills, believing it to be a gateway straight to hell.

9 Ponte Della Maddalena: Borgo a Mozzano, Italy

The Ponte della Maddalena spans the Serchio River in Borgo a Mozzano, Italy. While historians place its construction somewhere between 1046 and 1115, the exact date remains a mystery.

By the 14th century the bridge was already in use, though its original name has been lost to time. It only acquired its current dedication to Mary Magdalene after a chapel was erected nearby in the early 1500s.

Folklore tells that the bridge’s human architect, unable to meet a looming deadline, bargained with the Devil. The Devil agreed to finish the work in exchange for the soul of the first traveler to cross. A clever priest suggested sending a pig, which caused the Devil to plunge into the river in fury. An alternate version mentions a dog, whose spirit is said to roam the bridge on crisp October evenings, still searching for the poor soul it once replaced.

8 Monnow Bridge: Monmouth, Wales

Welsh folklore celebrates Jack o’ Kent, a trickster who repeatedly outwitted the Devil. In one tale, Jack offered the Devil a choice between the top or bottom of his sown crops; the Devil chose the top, only to discover turnips, and later chose the bottom, only to find wheat.

Another story recounts Jack striking a deal for the Devil to erect a bridge over the River Monnow in return for the soul of the first person to cross. The Devil complied, completing the bridge overnight.

When the Devil demanded Jack’s soul, the clever hero tossed a hungry dog across the bridge, sacrificing the animal instead. Even after death, Jack’s cunning persisted: he arranged his burial within a church wall, ensuring his remains were neither inside nor outside, thus frustrating the Devil’s claim.

7 Tarr Steps: Somerset, England

The Tarr Steps, a modest clapper bridge in Exmoor National Park, Somerset, England, is built from flat stone slabs laid across stepping stones, allowing passage over shallow water.

Its exact age is a mystery, with estimates ranging from 1000 BC to AD 1400. Legend claims the Devil constructed the bridge solely for sunbathing, never walking across it but simply lounging on the slabs to soak up the rays.

Superstitious villagers first tested the bridge by sending a cat, which vanished—some say torn apart by the Devil. A local parson later challenged the Devil’s right to the bridge; after a heated exchange, the Devil relented, permitting ordinary use, but warned never to cross while he was basking in the sun.

6 Devil’s Bridge: Ceredigion, Wales

This Devil’s Bridge comprises three successive arches, each built atop its predecessor, spanning the Afon Mynach in Ceredigion, Wales. The original stone span, perched in a narrow valley, seemed impossible for mortal hands.

While the exact construction date is unknown, evidence suggests monks from Strata Florida Abbey erected the first bridge in the mid‑1100s, earning it the nickname “Monk’s Bridge.” A second bridge appeared in 1753, and a third in 1901.

Local legend tells of an elderly woman named Megan who, desperate to rescue her cow from a raging flood, bargained with the Devil for a bridge. The Devil demanded the soul of the first human to cross, but Megan outsmarted him by tossing a piece of bread, prompting her dog to dash across first. The Devil, unimpressed, vanished.

5 Stone Bridge: Regensburg, Germany

The Stone Bridge in Regensburg stretches over the Danube and was erected between 1135 and 1146. Three fortified towers once guarded it; one was lost to ice in 1784, another damaged in 1810, leaving a solitary tower today.

According to legend, a rivalry brewed between the bridge’s builders and the nearby cathedral’s crew, each betting on who would finish first. When the cathedral team surged ahead, the bridge master struck a deal with the Devil, who promised to complete the bridge first in exchange for the souls of the first three beings to cross.

The cunning builder sent a dog and two chickens across, tricking the Devil. Enraged, the Devil attempted to demolish the bridge, leaving a dent, before leaping from a cathedral tower and meeting his own demise. The story underscores the timeless theme of outwitting the infernal.

4 Ponte Da Mizarela: Montalegre, Portugal

The Ponte da Mizarela, also called the Bridge of the Devil, arches over the Rio Rabagão near Montalegre, Portugal. Folklore says a fleeing criminal begged the Devil for a bridge after being trapped on the riverbank.

The Devil obliged, demanding the criminal’s soul. After the bridge materialized, the desperate man sought a priest’s help. The priest gave him holy water, which the criminal splashed on the bridge, reclaiming his soul and rendering the bridge permanent.

An alternate version claims the villagers built the bridge jointly, only for the Devil to destroy it twelve times, vowing it would never stand. When the priest instructed them to throw a loaf of bread onto the structure, divine power repelled the Devil, allowing the bridge to endure.

3 Mukachevo Castle: Palanok, Ukraine

Mukachevo Castle crowns Palanok in western Ukraine, its origins shrouded in medieval mystery. Between 1396 and 1414, Prince Fedor Koryatovich fortified the stronghold, yet a crucial well remained dry despite years of digging.

Desperate, the prince promised a bag of gold to anyone who could strike water. The Devil appeared, accepted the bargain, plunged into the well, and instantly produced a flowing spring. He then pledged to return in three days for his payment.

Lacking a full sack of gold, the prince consulted a wizard who suggested offering a tiny pouch of a few coins—meeting the Devil’s vague terms. Insulted, the Devil snarled and leapt back into the well, where he has allegedly haunted ever since, never daring to leave the darkness of the well for fear of further humiliation.

2 Teufelsbrucke: Schollenen Gorge, Switzerland

The Schöllenen Gorge, nestled in the Swiss canton of Uri, was a perilous passage long before the Devil’s involvement. Repeated attempts to build a crossing failed as mule‑loaded carts repeatedly plummeted from the cliffs.

Frustrated locals struck a pact with the Devil: he would construct the bridge in exchange for the soul of the first traveler. The Devil obliged, finishing the span overnight and waiting on the opposite bank.

A farmer, hoping to cheat the Devil, sent his goat first. The Devil seized the animal, tearing it apart, then carried a massive boulder up the slope in a fit of spite. An elderly woman, spotting the exhausted Devil, recognized his webbed feet as demonic. She crossed herself and the boulder with the sign of the cross, causing the stone to stick fast. Defeated, the Devil vanished, and the boulder remains known today as the Devil’s Stone.

1 Valentre Bridge: Cahors, France

The Valentre Bridge spans the Lot River at Cahors, France, its construction spanning 70 years from 1308 to 1378. Impatient with the slow progress, the chief builder summoned the Devil, promising his soul in return for accelerated work.

Near completion, the builder devised a final ruse: he ordered the Devil to fetch water using a sieve—a task impossible for any mortal, let alone a demon. Realizing the trick, the Devil grew furious and dispatched a demon to demolish the bridge, but the creature failed.

One tower’s upper corner sustained damage, remaining scarred until a major renovation in 1879. Architect Paul Gout commemorated the legend by installing a statue of a demon attempting to pilfer stones from the damaged section, ensuring that the tale of the Devil’s thwarted vengeance lives on for visitors today.

These ten haunting sites remind us that architecture can be as much about myth as masonry. Whether you’re a history buff, a thrill‑seeker, or simply love a good spooky story, the devilishly engineered castles and bridges on this list are sure to spark your imagination.

When we think of structures that have endured through the centuries, the mind often drifts to iconic monuments like the Colosseum, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, or the Egyptian pyramids. Yet, there exists a quieter class of marvels—bridges that continue to fulfill the exact purpose they were designed for, right up to the present day. These ten bridges, all built by ancient hands, still welcome pedestrians, carts, or modern vehicles, proving that solid engineering never truly ages.

10 bridges built: Ancient Marvels Still in Use

10 Pons Fabricius

The Romans were masters of durable construction, and a handful of their projects still dominate the Roman landscape. If you fancy a walk through history, the Pons Fabricius in Rome offers a perfect glimpse of Roman ingenuity that has survived for over two millennia.

Erected in 62 BC by the magistrate Lucius Fabricius, the stone span likely replaced an earlier wooden crossing that succumbed to fire. Fabricius proudly inscribed his name on the bridge at four separate points, making his contribution unmistakable to anyone strolling across it.

Following a severe flood in 23 BC, the consuls Marcus Lollius and Quintus Aemilius Lepidus oversaw repairs in 21 BC. While the exact nature of their work remains unclear, scholars suspect they added a small auxiliary arch that helped divert water pressure during high‑water events—a clever tweak that may well have been pivotal to the bridge’s extraordinary longevity.

9 Ponte Vecchio

Rising from the Arno River in Florence, the Ponte Vecchio was reconstructed in 1345 after a previous wooden bridge fell victim to repeated flooding. Its enduring stone arches still dominate the city’s skyline.

The bridge’s most striking feature is its continuous row of shops that line both sides—a concept introduced at its inception and still thriving today. In the 1400s the bridge earned a dubious reputation for the foul smells emanating from fishmongers and butchers. Grand Duke Ferdinand I, eager to cleanse its image during the Renaissance, expelled the meat vendors and decreed that only goldsmiths and silversmiths could set up shop, turning the bridge into a glittering showcase for affluent visitors.

During World War II, retreating German troops demolished every Florentine bridge to slow the Allied advance. The Ponte Vecchio, however, survived because the soldiers chose to destroy its approaches rather than the structure itself, sparing this historic crossing for future generations.

8 Ponte Di Rialto

Venice’s famed Rialto crossing was rebuilt in 1591 after the previous wooden bridge collapsed under the weight of commerce. Designed by Antonio da Ponte, the project attracted fierce competition from luminaries such as Michelangelo and Palladio.

Critics of the day dismissed the new bridge as “top‑heavy and ungraceful,” a sentiment that echoed later disdain for the Eiffel Tower. Nevertheless, the structure’s robust 7‑metre (24‑foot) arch allowed galleys to pass beneath, while a central row of shops added both commercial vitality and structural reinforcement. Its strength proved undeniable when cannon fire was discharged from its deck during the 1797 riots.

7 Khaju Bridge

Commissioned by Shah Abbas II in 1667, the Khaju Bridge in Isfahan rests on foundations of an earlier structure. Its primary function was to span the Zayandeh River, yet the bridge also doubles as a modest dam, equipped with sluice gates to regulate water flow.

Beyond its engineering feats, the bridge became a social hotspot. Lavish tile work and vibrant paintings line its length, while a central pavilion—now a teahouse and art gallery—once offered Shah Abbas a private perch to admire the river. A stone seat within the pavilion, originally used by the Shah for contemplation, still survives as a quiet relic of its regal past.

6 Shaharah Bridge

Often dubbed the “Bridge of Sighs” (though unrelated to Venice’s famous span), the 17th‑century Shaharah Bridge stretches across a sheer 200‑metre‑deep (650‑foot) canyon, linking the peaks of Jabal al‑Emir and Jabal al‑Faish in Yemen.

The bridge was more than a convenient shortcut; it served as the sole entrance to the fortified town of Shaharah, providing a defensible choke point against Ottoman incursions. Local lore claims the bridge can be demolished at a moment’s notice, allowing villagers to isolate themselves from danger when required.

Today, the bridge draws tourists from around the globe while still functioning as a vital crossing for residents, preserving its original purpose after centuries of geopolitical upheaval.

5 Cendere Bridge

Also known as the Severan Bridge, the Cendere structure was erected in the 2nd century AD by four cities of the Kommagene region to honor Emperor Septimius Severus, his wife Julia Domna, and their sons Caracalla and Geta. It ranks as the second‑longest surviving Roman‑era arch bridge.

Flanking each side of the span are pairs of monumental columns representing the imperial family: Severus and Julia on one side, Caracalla and Geta on the other. The column for Geta is conspicuously missing—Caracalla, after assassinating his brother, ordered the erasure of Geta’s memory, a practice known as damnatio memoriae, which extended even to the bridge’s stonework.

4 Anji Bridge

Constructed in AD 605, the Anji Bridge—also called Zhaozhou Bridge—is celebrated as China’s oldest surviving stone bridge. Its name, meaning “Safe Crossing Bridge,” reflects the ambition of its designers to create a lasting, reliable crossing.

Renowned for possessing the world’s largest single stone arch at the time, the bridge has withstood ten major floods, eight wars, and countless earthquakes, requiring only nine documented repairs over its more than 1,400‑year lifespan. Its technical brilliance earned it recognition as the 12th milestone in international civil engineering by the American Society of Civil Engineers.

3 Ponte Sant’Angelo

Commissioned by Emperor Hadrian in AD 136, the Ponte Sant’Angelo (Bridge of the Holy Angel) was originally built to connect Rome with Hadrian’s own mausoleum, the Castel Sant’Angelo. The bridge’s name stems from the archangel Michael statue perched atop the mausoleum, a figure said to have miraculously halted a plague in 590 BC.

In 1668, the celebrated sculptor Gian Lorenzo Bernini enhanced the bridge by adding ten angelic statues along its length—two of which he carved himself. Each angel bears symbols of Christ’s crucifixion, such as crowns of thorns or whips, and the ensemble remains intact, offering visitors a blend of ancient utility and Baroque artistry.

2 Tarr Steps

Set in the Exmoor landscape, the Tarr Steps is a classic clapper bridge—a series of massive stone slabs laid directly atop one another without mortar. Its exact origin is shrouded in mystery, with estimates ranging from the Neolithic 3,000 BC era to medieval times; the earliest documented reference dates to the Tudor period, confirming its existence at least since the 1500s.

Local folklore claims the Devil himself constructed the bridge, vowing to kill anyone who dared cross it. To test the tale, villagers sent a cat, which allegedly vanished, followed by a vicar who negotiated a pact with the Devil: the bridge would remain open to all unless the Devil desired a sunny spot, at which point access would be revoked.

Because the bridge rests on loosely fitted stones, floodwaters have occasionally dislodged sections. To preserve its authenticity, each slab is now numbered, allowing caretakers to recover and replace them accurately after any damage, ensuring the bridge’s continuity despite repeated repairs.

1 Arkadiko Bridge

The Arkadiko Bridge in the Peloponnese stands as the world’s oldest surviving arch bridge still traversed today. Built during the Greek Bronze Age, roughly between 1300 BC and 1200 BC, it once formed part of a military road linking the ancient cities of Tiryns and Epidaurus.

With a roadway width of approximately 2.5 metres (8 feet), the bridge was wide enough to accommodate chariots, suggesting a sophisticated understanding of traffic needs. Remarkably, the entire structure consists solely of limestone boulders fitted together without any mortar—a testament to Mycenaean masonry prowess that has endured for over three millennia.

—S.E. Batt, freelance writer and author. Follow his musings on Twitter @Simon_Batt or explore his fiction at www.sebatt.com.

Exploring the United States reveals a treasure trove of natural wonders, iconic structures, and, yes, some truly spectacular bridges. From soaring suspension spans to charming covered walkways, the 14 most famous bridges showcase engineering marvels, breathtaking vistas, and captivating histories. Join us as we count down these celebrated crossings, each with its own story to tell.

1 Bixby Creek Bridge, California

The stunning Bixby Creek Bridge stands as a prime example of graceful engineering. Rising 218 feet above the water, its 714‑foot span arches over the dramatic cliffs of Bixby Creek, linking the iconic coastal stretch of Big Sur with the broader region of California. Its sleek, open‑spandrel design captures the essence of the Pacific coastline.

Constructed with roughly 600,000 pounds of steel and 6,600 cubic yards of concrete, the bridge reflects the classic aesthetic of California’s entertainment‑era architecture. Photographers flock to its viewpoint, and seasoned travelers often remark that crossing the bridge adds an unmistakable sense of majesty to any road‑trip itinerary.

2 Brooklyn Bridge, New York

Famed in cartoons, movies, and countless television moments, the Brooklyn Bridge stretches across the East River, uniting lower Manhattan with the historic neighborhood of Brooklyn Heights. Designed by German‑American engineer John A. Roebling, the project demanded fourteen years of meticulous work before opening its gates in 1883.

Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1964, the bridge reaches a height of at least 272 feet, spans a total length of 1.1 miles (6,016 feet), and features a main span of 1,595.5 feet. Today it serves as a pedestrian haven and a six‑lane thoroughfare, embodying both historic charm and modern utility.

3 London Bridge, Arizona

Originally spanning the River Thames in England, the historic London Bridge found a new home on the banks of Lake Havasu in Arizona after being purchased in the 1960s by a visionary councilman named Ivan Luckin. The bridge arrived in 1967 and was carefully re‑erected, opening to the public in 1971.

Stretching 930 feet across the Bridgewater Channel, the structure now links Lake Havasu City to a small island brimming with hotels, restaurants, and shops. Its original ornate lampposts and the 10,276 granite blocks that compose its façade remain intact, offering visitors a taste of English heritage in the desert Southwest.

4 Golden Gate Bridge, California

San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge has become an emblem of the city itself. Conceived by structural engineer Joseph B. Strauss, construction began in 1930 and concluded seven years later, at which point the bridge’s towers rose 746 feet—making it the world’s tallest suspension bridge at the time.

Spanning 4,200 feet across the Golden Gate Strait, the bridge connects the bustling city to Marin County. Over a thousand workers contributed to its $35 million cost, and today it is celebrated for its striking Art Deco details and sweeping Pacific Ocean vistas.

5 Sunshine Skyway Bridge, Florida

The Sunshine Skyway Bridge’s story begins with tragedy: a freighter named the Summit Venture collided with the original span on May 9 1980, prompting a complete rebuild. The modern cable‑stayed bridge was finished in 1987 and now stretches 21,860 feet across Tampa Bay, linking Terra Ceia with St. Petersburg.

Reaching a maximum height of 430 feet, the bridge features a dedicated bike lane and pedestrian pathway. Its striking yellow cables and towering concrete pylons give the impression of billowing sails, making it a visual standout on the Florida horizon.

6 New River Gorge Bridge, West Virginia

True to its name, the New River Gorge Bridge dominates the landscape of West Virginia. Built in just three years and opened in 1977, the steel arch spans 3,030 feet, earning it the title of the world’s fifth‑longest single‑span bridge. Its soaring deck climbs 876 feet above the gorge, delivering breathtaking panoramic views.

This engineering marvel cut a 40‑minute commute down to a single minute, thanks to its efficient design. The graceful arch not only serves traffic but also provides a dramatic backdrop for BASE‑jumpers and thrill‑seekers alike.

7 Cornish Windsor Covered Bridge, New Hampshire

The Cornish Windsor Covered Bridge stretches an impressive 460 feet across the Connecticut River, linking the towns of Cornish and Windsor. Completed in 1866, the bridge showcases a classic American wooden lattice‑truss design, a patent of its creator from the early 19th century.

Today it remains one of the nation’s longest two‑spanned covered bridges, a testament to 19th‑century craftsmanship. Its timbered arches and historic charm draw visitors seeking a glimpse of New England’s bygone era.

8 Chesapeake Bay Bridge, Maryland

When the Chesapeake Bay Bridge opened its gates in 1952, it earned the distinction of being the world’s longest continuous‑water steel structure. Spanning 22,704 feet and reaching a peak height of 186 feet, the twin‑span bridge links Maryland’s eastern and western shores.

Although primarily a two‑lane vehicular route, the bridge opens its pathways to pedestrians each May 1st. Its reputation for low visibility during storms makes it a notorious challenge for those with gephyrophobia, as the water can disappear beneath a thick, misty veil.

9 Skydance Bridge, Oklahoma

The Skydance Bridge stands apart from its vehicular cousins, having been conceived solely for pedestrians. Stretching 380 feet over Interstate 40, the 60‑foot‑wide crossing offers a safe, elevated pathway for walkers and cyclists alike.

Architects Hans and Torrey Butzer drew inspiration from Oklahoma’s state bird, the scissor‑tailed flycatcher. Their design incorporates stainless‑steel panels arranged to evoke the delicate silhouette of feathers, turning the bridge into a soaring sculpture that celebrates both function and art.

10 Tacoma Narrows Bridge, Washington

The original Tacoma Narrows Bridge opened in 1940, only to be dramatically undone by fierce winds four months later—a moment that entered engineering folklore. A decade later, a sturdier replacement emerged, featuring stiffened struts and open trusses to better withstand gusts.

Initially a one‑way, westbound crossing, the bridge’s capacity expanded in 2007 with the addition of an eastbound sibling. Together they span 5,400 feet across the Narrows of Puget Sound, linking the Olympic Peninsula to Washington’s mainland.

11 Mackinac Bridge, Michigan

The Mackinac Bridge, affectionately dubbed “Mighty Mack,” opened its suspension cables in 1957, instantly becoming a marvel of modern engineering. Stretching an overall length of 26,372 feet, its main span measures 3,799 feet, making it the longest suspension bridge in the Western Hemisphere.

Spanning the waters between Lake Michigan and Lake Huron, the bridge connects St. Ignace with Mackinaw City. Its deck incorporates steel grating to promote airflow and reduce wind‑induced stress, ensuring the structure remains steadfast against the region’s fierce breezes.

12 Rainbow Bridge, New York

Opened to vehicular traffic in 1941, the Rainbow Bridge gracefully arches over the world‑renowned Niagara Gorge, linking the United States with Canada’s Niagara Falls. Though technically a binational structure, it unquestionably belongs on any list of iconic American crossings.

Spanning 1,450 feet with its longest single span reaching 960 feet, the bridge’s apex climbs to 202 feet above the water. Whether you’re snapping photos of the majestic falls or framing the bridge itself against the cascading backdrop, the views are nothing short of unforgettable.

13 Royal Gorge Bridge, Colorado

Construction of the Royal Gorge Bridge wrapped up in a rapid six‑month sprint, and the steel suspension span opened its gates in 1929. Nestled near Cañon City, the bridge was built to complement the Royal Gorge Park amusement complex.

At a dizzying height of 955 feet, the bridge earned the title of the world’s tallest when it debuted, a record it held until 2001 when a Chinese bridge surpassed it. Still, it remains the United States’ highest bridge, stretching 1,260 feet in total with its longest span measuring 880 feet.

14 Benson Bridge, Oregon

Rounding out our countdown is the historic Benson Bridge, a footbridge that first opened its doors in 1914 to span Multnomah Creek between the twin cascades of Multnomah Falls.

Featuring a buttressed concrete floor arch, the bridge measures just under six feet in width and stretches 52 feet in length. Its arch towers 105 feet above the lower falls, while the overall structure reaches a peak height of 135 feet, allowing hikers to cross safely above the roaring water below.

Some people have always been frightened of bridges. The 10 terrifying bridges we’re about to explore will make even seasoned adventurers break a sweat. Gephyrophobia sufferers often detour for miles just to avoid a crossing, while those with a fear of heights find themselves clutching railings and praying for a solid floor.

Why These 10 Terrifying Bridges Make Your Pulse Race

10 Royal Gorge Bridge Colorado

The Royal Gorge Bridge, once the world’s highest bridge until 2001, was erected in 1929 for a modest $350,000. Spanning 384 metres (1,260 ft) across Colorado’s spectacular Royal Gorge, it hangs over the Arkansas River that roars 291 metres (955 ft) below, occasionally swallowing white‑water rafters battling the currents.

Construction wrapped up in a brisk six months. Each of the two main cables weighs 200 tons and bundles 2,100 individual wires. The deck comprises 1,292 wooden planks bolted to the base. Lacking a vertical truss, the bridge sways with every footfall, which can feel unsettling when you’re perched above a raging river almost a thousand feet down.

If the thought of that motion makes you queasy, you can skip the bridge altogether and hop on the aerial gondolas that whisk you safely to the opposite side without a single heartbeat‑racing step.

9 Titlis Cliff Walk Switzerland

To conquer the Titlis Cliff Walk you first climb Mount Titlis, where the bridge awaits you at the summit. A short trek through a glacier cave and an underground tunnel brings you to the narrow walkway.

Perched roughly 3,000 metres (10,000 ft) above sea level, the bridge stretches 100 metres (330 ft) but is a mere 1 metre (3.3 ft) wide. It spans a chasm about 500 metres (1,600 ft) deep, forcing walkers to thread a single‑file line across roughly 150 steps. The sheer drop below makes every heartbeat audible.

Once you’ve braved the walk, you can catch the “Ice Flyer” chairlift to the other side of the glacier – a reminder that the world can be both terrifying and exhilarating in equal measure.

8 Marienbrucke Germany

Marienbrucke, also known as Queen Mary’s Bridge, sits on the estate of Bavaria’s fairy‑tale Neuschwanstein Castle. The bridge arches 90 metres (295 ft) over the Pollat River, framing breathtaking views of the castle perched on a cliff.

King Ludwig II commissioned the bridge in the 1840s as a birthday present for his consort, Marie, who delighted in mountain climbing and apparently had a fondness for heights. The structure was built solely for the pleasure of admiring the scenery.

7 Puente De Ojuela Mexico

Even the winding road that leads to Puente de Ojuela is a challenge, but the bridge itself is downright terrifying. Stretching about 300 metres (1,000 ft) and suspended nearly 100 metres (327 ft) above a deep ravine, the bridge is a skinny 0.6 metres (2 ft) wide.

Constructed in 1898 to ferry gold, silver, and supplies from local mines, the bridge sways underfoot. Although handrails are present, the wide gaps between the planks give a clear view straight down to the canyon. Traffic moves both ways, so walkers often find themselves jostled as they cross.

If you muster the courage to step onto this historic rope‑bridge – designed by the same engineers who built the Brooklyn Bridge – you’ll be rewarded with a ghost‑town museum and the remnants of an abandoned mine, though many would rather stay on the safer side.

6 The Hanging Bridge Of Ghasa Nepal

The Hanging Bridge of Ghasa, often dubbed the Swinging Bridge of Ghasa, sways dramatically in high‑altitude winds, creating a heart‑pounding experience for locals, visitors, and even the occasional cow.

Despite its delicate appearance, the bridge proves surprisingly sturdy, supporting both pedestrians and cattle. To keep the animals calm, some herders even blindfold their livestock – a practice that would be hilarious if it weren’t so nerve‑wracking.

Built to ease congestion on nearby crossings, the bridge sees daily traffic, turning the idea of a traffic jam into a literal, swaying nightmare.

5 Iya Kazurabashi Japan

Hidden in Japan’s Iya Valley, the Iya Kazurabashi vine bridge stretches 45 metres (148 ft) across the Iyagawa River, hovering just 14 metres (46 ft) above the water.

Constructed from hardy kiwi vines, the bridge isn’t the most durable material – the vines rot over time – but the ancient builders chose them deliberately. The vines could be cut quickly in case of an invader, denying the enemy a crossing.

Every three years the bridge is rebuilt, with vines lashed to towering cedar trees on either side. Modern safety measures hide steel ropes within the vines, yet the wide gaps between the steps and the wild swaying still manage to send a chill down the spine of most visitors.

4 Q’eswachaka Bridge Peru

The Q’eswachaka Bridge, perched on the ancient Inca Trail through the Andes, is the last surviving example of an Inca suspension bridge. These bridges were vital for connecting the sprawling Inca Empire and continued to serve local communities for centuries.

In times of conflict, the bridges were deliberately cut down to protect inhabitants from invaders; many were burned during the Spanish conquest. The bridge’s floor, handrails, and vertical ties are all woven from natural fibers, while stone pillars anchor the cables on each side.

Crossing the bridge is far from smooth – the loose, woven construction allows a clear view of the river below, making every step feel precarious. Each year, local villagers harvest grass, braid it into new cables, and pull the ropes across from opposite ends, meeting in the middle. The entire rebuild takes just three days, after which the communities celebrate the renewed link.

3 Kuandinsky Bridge Russia

The Kuandinsky Bridge stretches a rugged 570 metres (1,870 ft) over the Vitim River in Siberia. Originally built for rail traffic, it now serves as an unofficial vehicle crossing despite being only about 2 metres (6.6 ft) wide and lacking any railings or safety features.

Rust has gnawed the steel, and the wooden sleepers have rotted under the harsh Siberian climate. Locals, perhaps driven a little mad by the perpetual cold, have turned the bridge into a shortcut, despite heavy vehicles often breaking the sleepers. Travelers must stop, replace missing planks with any scrap wood they can find, and even contend with the slippery surface that stays wet year‑round.

2 Hongyagu Bridge China

Designers of Hebei’s Hongyagu Bridge clearly have a twisted sense of fun. Opened at the end of 2017, the glass‑floored suspension bridge spans 488 metres (1,601 ft) across a sheer drop of 220 metres (722 ft). The transparent panels, only 4 centimetres (1.6 in) thick, give walkers the unsettling impression of walking on air.

The bridge can hold up to 2,000 people, but only 600 are permitted at once for safety. Visitors must wear “shoe gloves” to protect the glass from scratches – a quirky requirement that adds to the experience.

To further heighten the drama, staff are stationed along the span to assist faint‑hearted tourists, and sound effects make it seem as though the glass is cracking beneath each step, though it’s all an illusion.

1 Hussaini Hanging Bridge Pakistan

The Hussaini Hanging Bridge in Pakistan barely qualifies as a bridge at all. The current version, rebuilt after a weather‑destroyed predecessor, is a rope‑and‑plank structure constantly battered by icy winds that make it sway violently.

At least ten locals have perished while crossing, according to villagers. A slip would send you plunging into the raging river below. Tourists often tiptoe onto the bridge for a quick photo before hurrying back, but residents rely on it daily, even hauling heavy packs across the precarious span.

Despite its grim reputation, the bridge remains a vital link for the community, a testament to human resilience in the face of terrifying engineering.

When cities sprawl and highways slice through natural habitats, the result can be a tragic tally of road‑kill and fragmented ecosystems. Fortunately, engineers and conservationists have turned the problem into an opportunity, designing safe passages that let wildlife move freely again. Below you’ll find 10 fascinating facts about wildlife crossings—each one a clever solution that blends infrastructure with ecology.

10 Fascinating Facts About Wildlife Crossings

10 Eco‑Ducts

Across Europe, nations such as the Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany, and France have been pioneering wildlife overpasses and underpasses for decades. In the Netherlands these structures are known as eco‑ducts, and the country already boasts roughly 600 of them. Built on protected terrain, eco‑ducts are off‑limits to mining, drilling, or hunting, ensuring they remain safe sanctuaries for passing fauna. Dutch planners have ambitious expansion plans, aiming to add even more eco‑ducts to their network.

Innovation isn’t limited to Europe. Other regions are getting creative, too. South Korea, for example, hosted the Yangjaegogae Eco‑bridge Design Competition in Seoul, where designers submitted concepts that mimic the sloping mountains they connect. The winning entry gracefully arches over a bustling eight‑lane highway, giving countless creatures a secure route across the divide.

9 Not a New Invention

Long before modern highways, the 17th‑century French already tackled passage problems by bundling branches into fish ladders—essentially staircases for fish navigating steep waterways. These ladders, constructed from rocks, lumber, or logs, let fish bypass obstacles and reach spawning grounds, food sources, and mates. Though the image of fish climbing a ladder sounds whimsical, the ladders are vital for their life cycles.

In North America, Canadian lumber‑mill owner Richard McFarland patented a fishway in 1837 to help fish evade his dam. His design was the first of its kind to receive a patent, and today fish ladders are commonplace, especially in turbulent rivers where upstream migration would otherwise be impossible.

8 Biodiversity

Wildlife crossings have become a cornerstone of modern conservation, boosting animal numbers and enriching biodiversity—the variety of life that fuels ecosystem resilience. By reconnecting habitats, these corridors restore the flow of genetic material, food, and shelter, preventing the cascade of problems that follow population declines.

Japan illustrates this principle with its “Turtle Tunnels,” subterranean passages beneath train tracks that safeguard turtles from rail traffic. A similar tunnel in Massachusetts, built under Route 44, reunites two spotted‑turtle populations split by the road, allowing fresh genetic exchange and enhancing the turtles’ ability to adapt to environmental changes.

7 From Mice to Grizzlies

Canada’s Banff National Park showcases a comprehensive network of 44 wildlife passages—six overpasses and 38 underpasses—installed since a 1978 road‑improvement project. The Trans‑Canada Highway, which carries nearly 18,000 vehicles daily, is now threaded with these structures, permitting a broad spectrum of species to cross safely.

Camera monitoring reveals distinct preferences: grizzlies, deer, and moose favor the open‑air overpasses, while cougars tend toward darker underpasses that provide concealment. Smaller critters, from voles to mice, make use of the myriad culverts peppered throughout the park, demonstrating that size‑inclusive design benefits the entire animal community.

6 Christmas Crabs

Among the world’s most iconic crossings is the crab bridge on Australia’s Christmas Island. Home to about 45 million vivid red crabs on a mere 52‑square‑mile island, the species faces a perilous road that bisects its annual migration route. To ease this, locals erected a 16‑foot bridge over the main thoroughfare, allowing the crabs to safely travel from forest to sea during spawning season.

The bridge has become a tourist magnet, drawing visitors eager to witness the spectacular sight of millions of crimson crabs marching in unison. While additional underpasses also aid the crabs, the elevated bridge remains the most visually striking solution.

5 Avoiding A Cat‑astrophe

Florida’s landscape is dotted with more than twenty wildlife crossings designed to protect the endangered Florida panther. Once teetering on the brink of extinction in the 1970s, the panther’s numbers have rebounded thanks in part to these underpasses, which mitigate the deadly threat of vehicle collisions.

Even with these corridors, the panther remains vulnerable. The animal’s survival hinges on continuous, vegetated habitats that allow it to roam and hunt. By cloaking the crossings in native plants and flowers, Florida provides panthers with a seamless extension of their natural range, bolstering population recovery—though, sadly, they won’t be helping the Carolina Panthers on the football field!

4 No Monkeying Around

Costa Rica’s “monkey bridges” were installed to keep primates from using dangerous electrical wires to swing across the forest canopy. Constructed from sturdy rope, these overhead walkways give monkeys a safe, reliable route between trees, dramatically reducing electrocution incidents.

Surprisingly, the bridges have attracted a whole suite of other residents—sloths, anteaters, even porcupines—who now cross with their young safely in tow. Watching a troop of monkeys traverse a rope bridge high above the rainforest is a reminder that simple engineering can make a big difference for many species.

3 Over the Down Under Bridge

Australia’s wildlife bridges and tunnels were once thought unsuitable for koalas, but ecologist Darryl Jones of Griffith University proved otherwise. Within three weeks of a 2016 installation, koalas were confidently using the structures, demonstrating that even the most arboreal creatures can adapt to engineered pathways.

These passages are often lined with native vegetation, making them appear as natural extensions of the landscape. While originally built for squirrel gliders, the same bridges now host wrens, finches, and a host of other feathered visitors, illustrating the versatility of well‑designed wildlife corridors.

2 Keeping It Natural

Since the 1990s, the United States has erected thousands of wildlife crossings, ranging from subterranean tunnels to expansive bridges that accommodate elk, moose, and countless other species. These corridors not only cut down road‑kill incidents but also reconnect fragmented habitats, allowing animals to move freely across the landscape.

Modern designs emphasize ecological authenticity: engineers plant native trees and shrubs on bridge decks, creating green corridors that blend seamlessly with surrounding environments. Paired with strategic highway fencing, these “green bridges” funnel wildlife toward safe crossing points, dramatically improving passage efficiency.

1 Going Bigger

The world’s largest wildlife overpass is currently rising in California, just northwest of Los Angeles. Named the Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing, this ten‑lane span over the 101 freeway will serve pumas, deer, coyotes, rabbits, squirrels, lizards, and many other species, while also hosting a pedestrian and bike path for people.

Construction began in earnest to address the alarming decline of mountain lions in the Santa Monica Mountains. The freeway had isolated lion populations, leading to genetic bottlenecks and a drop in numbers. Earlier attempts to provide an underpass proved fatal for several lions, underscoring the need for a more effective solution.

When completed, the overpass will reconnect the Santa Monica range with the Simi Valley mountains, allowing lions and other wildlife to safely traverse the corridor, exchange genes, and thrive. As a Southern California resident, I can’t wait to stroll across this marvel and watch nature reclaim its pathways.

The majority of bridges are relatively commonplace and utilitarian, but some rise above the rest. From feats of impressive engineering to creative designs, there are some bridges that draw thousands, even millions, of tourists each year. Of course, everyone is familiar with the iconic Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco and the Brooklyn Bridge in New York. Still, there are many less well-known but equally fascinating bridges to visit on your next trip.

Here are 10 of the most unusual bridges from around the world that you need to visit.

10 The Moses Bridge, the Netherlands

Most bridges chart a course over the water or space they are crossing, but the Moses Bridge in the Netherlands cuts directly through the water instead. The bridge provides access to Fort de Roovere, the largest fort on the West Brabant Line, a defensive line that used moats to deter attackers. A restoration project required a bridge to be built across the moat, but this was not advised as it would have ruined the site’s appearance.

The solution was to create a bridge that cuts through the water like a trench, rather than crossing over it, thus being less visually disruptive while still allowing people access. Built in 2010, the bridge was originally called Loopgraafbrug but is now known as the Moses Bridge because it appears to part the water like the biblical prophet Moses. Although the waterline sometimes looks precarious, the height of the water is controlled by dams, so the sunken bridge cannot be flooded.^[1]

9 The Golden Bridge, Vietnam

The Golden Bridge in Vietnam is designed to look like it is being held up by two giant stone hands. The weathered hands, which dwarf the pedestrians using the bridge, look as though they have been standing for centuries, but in reality they are made of wire mesh and fiberglass and have only been in place since 2018. The bridge offers a vista of the mountainous terrain below, but it is itself an impressive sight.

Located in the Bà Nà Hills resort near Da Nang City, the bridge links the gardens to a cable car station. The cable car currently holds the Guinness World Record for the longest non-stop single-track cable car ride, stretching across 19,000 feet (5,791 meters). The Golden Bridge may not hold any records, but it is an impressive addition to the resort, which Forbes describes as “a cross between Disney’s Epcot, a French ski resort, and a Buddhist mountain retreat.”^[2]

8 Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge, Northern Ireland

The Atlantic Ocean is the second-largest of the world’s oceans, and despite its huge size, there is actually a bridge that crosses it. Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge was first put up in 1755 to allow fishermen to cross from mainland Northern Ireland to a small offshore island. Spanning a 98-foot (30-meter) deep and 65-foot (20-meter) wide chasm, the bridge might not cross a particularly large portion of the ocean, but it does technically cross it.

A more modern bridge now spans the gap, enabling tourists to say they have walked over the Atlantic. Carrick-a-Rede isn’t the only bridge with such a claim, though; Clachan Bridge on the west coast of Scotland achieves the same feat but over a shorter distance. The small arched bridge crosses a narrow channel, both ends of which connect to the Atlantic.^[3]

7 The Euro Banknote Bridges, the Netherlands

Euro banknotes feature images of fictional bridges instead of real ones in order to not unfairly prioritize certain countries. However, Robin Stam thought, “it would be amazing if these fictional bridges suddenly turn out to actually exist in real life.” He reached out to the city council of Spijkenisse, where he was born, and “before I knew it, there was a whole team working on my idea.”

Between 2011 and 2013, the bridges were made a reality in Spijkenisse. Each of the seven banknotes, which symbolize the cooperation between European countries, depicts a different style of architecture. For instance, €20 is Gothic, and €50 is Renaissance. The real bridges are smaller than the art denoted on the banknote, but they are brightly colored to match their respective notes. Five of the bridges were built using colored concrete, and the remaining two used steel.^[4]

6 Banpo Bridge Moonlight Rainbow Fountain, South Korea

Banpo Bridge is the upper half of a 3,740-foot (1,140-meter) double-decker bridge, sitting atop Jamsu Bridge, which crosses the Han River in Seoul, South Korea. In 2008, fountains were installed along both sides of Banpo Bridge, earning it the Guinness World Record for the longest bridge fountain in the world. Amazingly, 380 nozzles line the sides of the bridge, shooting out 60 tons (54 tonnes) of water every minute.

During the day, the water cascades down in different elegant patterns, but it is best seen at night. LED lights illuminate the water jets in rainbow colors, and the movements are synchronized to music. As Banpo Bridge is suspended above Jamsu Bridge, spectators can even stand on the lower bridge to view the 20-minute show from below.^[5]

5 Kinzua Bridge, USA

Most bridges do not offer a view of what they will look like when they are destroyed, but that’s exactly what the Kinzua Bridge in Pennsylvania does. For a short period of time, it was the longest and tallest railroad bridge in the world, clocking in at 2,053 feet (626 meters) long and 301 feet (92 meters) high. In 2003 restoration work was being done on the structure when it was partially destroyed by a tornado.

It was determined that rebuilding the bridge would be too expensive, so instead, the remaining structure was converted into a pedestrian walkway that opened in 2011. Six of the still-standing support towers were used in the construction. Although the bridge no longer crosses the gorge, it does lead to a platform from which people can take in the chilling view of the eleven destroyed towers which were blown down and remain twisted at the bottom of the valley.^[6]

4 The Bastei Bridge, Germany

The Bastei is a spectacular 636-foot (194-meter) tall jagged rock formation that looms over the Elbe River in Germany. Neurathen Castle used to sit on top of the natural towers until it was burned down in 1484. Although no longer home to a fortress, crowds still visit in droves to see the impressive rocks. In the early 1800s, a wooden bridge was built to link the pillars, and around 1850, it was upgraded to the sandstone bridge that still stands today.

Walking the bridge provides a close-up look at the pillars as well as a sweeping panorama of the surrounding mountains and valley below. The dramatic medieval-looking bridge is as much of a draw to the area as the sandstone towers themselves. The view of the bridge nestled between the pillars looks like something straight out of The Lord of the Rings.^[7]

3 Las Lajas Sanctuary, Colombia

Las Lajas Sanctuary is a Gothic revival-style church that sits across a gorge in Colombia. The building juts out from one side of the canyon, 330 feet (100 meters) up from the bottom, and is connected to the other side by a 160-foot (49-meter) long bridge spanning the Guáitara River. The current church was built between 1916 and 1949, but a less grand shrine existed before then due to the location supposedly being the site of a miracle.

Local legend has it that in 1754, a woman and her deaf-mute daughter sought shelter from a storm in a cave and witnessed the appearance of the Virgin Mary, after which the child could speak and talk. People began making pilgrimages to the cave to ask for miracles, and at some point, an image of Mary supposedly appeared on a slab of stone. This stone is now part of the altar inside the impressive church.^[8]

2 The Tianjin Eye on Yongle Bridge, China

The Tianjin Eye in China is unusual compared to other Ferris wheels because it is the only one to be suspended over a river, specifically the Hai River. It stands 394 feet (120 meters) tall, meaning it is dwarfed by the Ain Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, which stands at a staggering 820 feet (250 meters) and is currently the tallest Ferris wheel in the world. However, no other observation wheel is attached to a bridge, making the Tianjin Eye and Yongle Bridge unique.

The wheel opened to the public in 2008 and can accommodate 384 riders at one time in its 48 compartments, taking 30 minutes to complete a rotation. It is attached to the bridge via visually dramatic tri-pronged struts. At night it is lit up with colorful neon lights, making it an impressive sight for pedestrians crossing the bridge below.^[9]

1 Living Root Bridges, India

A living root bridge is a suspension bridge formed from the living roots of trees, usually rubber trees. These living bridges are particularly common in the Indian state of Meghalaya, where the dense jungle means that building roads and bridges from common materials like concrete and steel is impractical. More than 100 living bridges have been formed in the province to enable tribal communities to cross the many rivers in the area.

The living bridges are formed by stretching bamboo across the river and then teasing the aerial roots into position. As the trees continue to grow over the years, the bridges become stronger and can accommodate more people crossing. They are currently on Unesco’s tentative list for world heritage site status because they demonstrate “a distinct ethno-botanical journey rooted in profound culture-nature reciprocity and synthesis.”^[10]

There’s nothing particularly interesting about bridges, until you – like us – look up the best bridges around the world and realize that you’re actually really into bridges. These works of art and engineering have taken bridge-building from its mere utility of connecting two elevated points to something far greater.

10. Magdeburg Water Bridge (Germany)

The water bridge – or aqueduct – in Magdeburg, Germany was planned as a solution to a particular problem with the region’s waterways. It connects two canal systems – Elbe-Havel Canal and the Mittelland Canal – with the Elbe river and each other. Previously, the journey took a seven-mile detour and multiple locks to lower and raise ships between varying elevations. 

Now, it’s barely a few minutes of waiting, as you get lowered or raised on to any of the waterways you want and be on your way. The bridge – originally conceived in the 1930s but only built after the Cold War was over – is actually a set of multiple bridges with their own lock systems. Thanks to it, ships can now seamlessly move between the inner harbors of Berlin and ports along the Rhine river, essentially connecting the eastern and western parts of the country’s vast waterway network.

9. Pont du Gard Aqueduct (France)

Few civilizations have dabbled in the high art of bridge-making as the Romans, exemplified by their near-obsession with aqueducts. The Roman aqueduct network was intricate and spread out across its vast territory, providing its distant, arid colonies with a steady supply of water. That involved building bridges of all kinds, as the aqueducts had to be connected over many different types of natural obstacles.

While most of that network is now lost to history, we can see glimpses of it in structures like the Pont du Gard. One of the most-visited tourist destinations in France, the Pont du Gard – or ‘Bridge of the Gard’ – towers over its surroundings at a height of 155 feet, which is pretty high for even modern bridges. It’s made up of three levels with multiple arches of their own, with the topmost one dedicated to the once-functional water conduit. 

8. Dragon Bridge (Vietnam)

At its most basic, there are only two ways to effectively build an impressive, timeless bridge. One is carefully studying the topography and weather conditions of the region, doing some calculations involving advanced concepts of architecture, and then meticulously putting it all together with the help of the construction team over the course of the next few years. The other is just building a regular bridge and putting a giant, fire-breathing dragon on it.

Authorities in the Vietnamese city of Da Nang clearly believed in the latter, when – back in 2013 – they unveiled the Dragon Bridge. Built to mark the 38th anniversary of the liberation of Da Nang during the Vietnam war, Dragon Bridge connects Da Nang airport with other major roads of the city. The dragon itself – running across almost the entire length of the bridge – is fitted with over 2,500 LED lights for special occasions, along with what we can only assume is a giant, custom-built flamethrower at its mouth. 

7. The Helix (Singapore)

The Helix is a pedestrian bridge in the Marina Bay area in Singapore, connecting multiple office and commercial establishments with each other over the Singapore river. It’s like most pedestrian bridges you’d have seen, only built in a complex, double-helix structure of DNA strands.

First revealed to the public in 2010, the Helix was planned as a lighter, better-looking alternative to the vehicular bridge right next to it – the Bayfront Bridge. During the day, canopies of perforated steel at strategic spots provide multiple spots of shade, making it an ideal lunch spot for office-goers nearby. At night, the double helix outline is lit up and emphasized with thousands of multi-colored LED lights, giving the whole thing an organic-yet-modern look. 

6. Royal Gorge Bridge (USA)

The Royal Gorge Bridge in Colorado is the highest bridge in the country and one of the highest in the world, soaring about 956 feet above the Arkansas river. Built in 1929, the bridge connects the two ends of the Royal Gorge – one of the deepest canyons in the USA – and provides a spectacular view of the unique, sprawling landscape.

The 1,260-foot-long bridge takes the usual canyon experience one step further – by putting you on top of it rather than the base – though one can always opt for the picturesque railroad routes at the base of the gorge, too. The bridge attracts quite a few visitors from across the country throughout the year, as it also offers multiple adventure activities like bungee jumping and zip lining in a sort of a bridge-cum-adventure-park setup. 

5. Nanpu Bridge (China)

At a total length of about 5.15 miles, the Nanpu bridge near Shanghai in China is easily one of the longest bridges in the world. On its own, however, the bridge itself isn’t anything special, as the skylines of modern Chinese cities are dotted with other, far-more-impressive bridges. Its main attraction, rather, is the circular network of ramps on its Shanghai side to ease the flow of traffic during rush hours.

It’s a giant, multi-level ramp with smaller ramps of its own, connecting many different roadways with each other and the bridge. It’s quite similar to large intersections in other cities around the world, only with the sole, specific purpose of smoothly diverting traffic over to the bridge. 

Before it was opened for public use in 1991, the only way to get across the Huangpu River was on a ferry. Now, it’s one of the busiest roads in Shanghai, as the bridge has allowed for rapid development and industrialization of the districts located on the other side.

4. Twin Sails (UK)

The Twin Sails Bridge in Dorset, United Kingdom is a double-leaved bascule bridge – a type of bridge that uses single or double spans, or leaves, that can be lowered and raised to provide clearance to boats. It’s not a particularly unique bridge design, as bascule bridges can be found all over Europe – another example being the Tower Bridge in London. 

What is unique, however, is the shape of its leaves. Instead of the usual rectangles, Twin Sails leaves are triangular in shape, making it the first triangular-leaved bascule bridge in the world. When open for water traffic, the entire structure looks like the sails of two giant yachts passing each other on the open seas. When it’s shut, however, it’s difficult to tell the bridge apart from any other bridge in the vicinity.

3. Si-o-se-pol (Iran)

Si-o-se-pol – or ‘The Bridge of 33 Arches’ in Persian – was originally conceived as both a bridge and a dam on the Zayandeh Rood river in Isfahan, Iran. Completed during the early part of the 17th century, Si-o-se-pol remains one of the best-preserved examples of bridge architecture from the Safavid era.

Over the years, though, the bridge-cum-dam has turned into a really long heritage building, as the lower reaches of the river have almost-entirely dried up due to various reasons. It now exists as a popular recreational spot, with shopping malls, hotels, cafes and other tourist attractions on either side to keep the visitors busy.

2. Veluwemeer Aqueduct (Netherlands)

The Veluwemeer aqueduct challenges the popular notion that bridges should be built over water bodies and not the other way around. Perhaps the only bridge of its kind in the world, the aqueduct – completed in 2002 – passes over the N302 highway in the Netherlands. One of the busiest roads in the country, the N302 connects the mainland city of Harderwijk with Flevoland – the largest artificial island in the world.

Technically speaking, it’s an entire lake built around a highway, with a connection between its two sides to keep the traffic flowing on both levels. It’s a unique solution to a common landscaping problem, usually solved by structures like drawbridges, tunnels, ferry terminals, and overpasses – all of which were found to be costlier and more disruptive for the highway than the aqueduct. It’s a small – yet scenic – part of the larger Flevoland project, as the Veluwemeer is one of the three artificial lakes that surround the 931-square-mile island. 

1. Juscelino Kubitschek Bridge (Brazil)

The Juscelino Kubitschek Bridge – named after the 21st president of Brazil – is only one of the many modernist architectural wonders scattered across the Brazilian capital of Brasilia, though it still manages to stand out on its own. Close to 4,000 feet in length, it’s a freeway arch bridge made with steel and concrete, and was first opened to general traffic in 2002. 

On a clear day, the bridge could be seen from many other spots in the city, thanks to its three crisscrossing, asymmetrically-placed arches that can’t be mistaken for anything else, each over 200 feet in height. It connects the eastern shore of Lake Paranoá with Brasilia’s city center, serving as an important road link as well as an Instagram-worthy landmark for the city’s 4.8 million residents.