Many monuments have astonishing interior looks and astounding exteriors. But a monument that blends in both these factors very seamlessly is the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge in Sydney, Australia. A monument that would put a smile on everyone’s faces is the thrilling, stunning, alluring Bridge. This bridge is one of a kind. It incorporates culture and tradition and it is vital in Australian society. A great connect between the people on the north and the south, one can simple not ignore this colossal structure.
History
The structure was constructed under the supervision of Bradfield. He was an engineer who served as the chief proponent of the bridge, overseeing both the design and construction. The deep waters of Sydney Harbour made temporary supports impractical, so the steel arch was assembled by building out from each bank. The work started in 1923 and the two sides met in the middle in 1930. The bridge was officially opened with an intricate ceremony on March 19, 1932. The length of the bridge is 1149 metres and it is approximately 134 metres above the water sea level.
Fun Facts
This bridge marks Australia’s emergence from the difficult years of depression and it is now the world’s largest steel bridge. It has a bucket full of fun facts. Most of the steel came from the other side of the world, the arches of this remarkable bridge change regularly and the bridge is still being painted continuously so that it is fresh and remains protected from the elements. Furthermore, the name that is absolutely hilarious is that the bridge is called ‘Coat Hanger’ because of its arches. Another interesting fact is that the Bridge also houses a crammed museum that has some rare videos of its construction.
Beauty and Utility
When you visit this bridge you can either walk across it while enjoying the picturesque view or you can drive across it which nearly everyone does to meet the North. More than 150,000 vehicles pass this bridge every day and it also enjoys the title of ‘the most climbed bridge in the world’. Till date, it has accommodated more than 4 million climbers from around the world. Ferries are also driven from underneath the bridge and it is a great opportunity to view the buzzing of the ocean in its dormant strength. At night you can see the whole bridge light up into a kaleidoscope of colours. New Year’s Day presents the most pleasurable sight on the bridge when the fireworks put a flamboyant blanket onto the night sky.
A Jaw-dropping Experience
It is no doubt that Sydney Harbour Bridge is a delight. When you are at the entrance you are greeted with a gust of wind. You feel irritated by the traffic but the dreamy sea and the excitement in your stomach take the tediousness away. You go almost jaw-dropping when in the distance you see colossal buildings set in neat lanes, ready to greet you to ‘the other side’. The feeling of being on the Sydney Harbour Bridge is simply one of a kind. You have to be there to soak it in!
Writer : Aarna Sharma
Grade : 6 (Year 2023)
Place : Sydney, Australia
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