Does the Original London Bridge Still Exist?

By Alice Nichols

The London Bridge has been one of the most iconic landmarks in London for centuries. However, there has been a long-standing debate about whether the original London Bridge still exists or not. Let’s explore this topic in-depth.

History of the Original London Bridge

The original London Bridge was built by the Romans in AD 50 and was made of wood. It was rebuilt several times over the centuries, with the most famous rebuild taking place in 1176 by King Henry II. This version of the bridge was built with stone and had 19 arches.

The Fate of the Original London Bridge

Despite its historical significance, the original London Bridge no longer exists. It was dismantled in 1831 after standing for over 600 years and replaced with a new bridge designed by John Rennie. The new bridge, which still stands today, is often referred to as “New” London Bridge to distinguish it from its predecessor.

What Happened to the Original Stones?

The stones from the original London Bridge were sold at an auction in 1831 and were purchased by an American businessman named Robert P. McCulloch for $2.5 million dollars (equivalent to around $65 million today). McCulloch had them transported to Lake Havasu City, Arizona where he used them to build a new tourist attraction – “London Bridge”.

Visiting “London Bridge” in Arizona

Today, visitors can still see a version of the original London Bridge at Lake Havasu City in Arizona. It has become a popular tourist destination and is now surrounded by shops, restaurants, and other attractions.

Is it Worth Visiting?

While it may not be the same as visiting the actual historical landmark in London, it is still an interesting experience to see a piece of history transported across oceans and rebuilt in a different country.

Conclusion

In summary, the original London Bridge no longer exists in its original form in London. However, visitors can still see a version of it in Arizona. Despite its new location, it remains a testament to the significance of the original bridge and its impact on history.