London Bridge is not just an iconic landmark in London, but it’s also a symbol of the city’s rich history and heritage. The bridge has undergone several transformations over the centuries, and its story is an interesting one to explore.
The Early Bridges
The first bridge that spanned the River Thames in London was built by the Romans in AD 43. It was a timber structure that stood for over 400 years until it was destroyed by fire in 1014. The next bridge was built in 1016 and stood for almost 200 years until it was swept away by a flood.
The Medieval Bridge
In 1176, work began on a new stone bridge that would replace the old wooden one. This new bridge, which became known as the Medieval Bridge, took over 30 years to build and had shops and houses built upon it. It became a bustling commercial center with merchants selling their wares to passersby.
William Wallace and London Bridge
During the Wars of Scottish Independence, William Wallace led an attack on London Bridge in 1297. The bridge was heavily fortified, but Wallace managed to breach the defenses and capture the tower at the southern end of it.
The Modern Bridges
The Medieval Bridge stood for over 600 years until it was deemed too congested and structurally unsound to continue use. In 1831, construction began on a new stone bridge designed by John Rennie. This new structure featured five arches and wider pavements for pedestrians.
The Moving of London Bridge
In 1967, London Bridge was dismantled brick-by-brick and transported across the Atlantic Ocean to Lake Havasu City in Arizona, USA. It was rebuilt there as a tourist attraction.
The Current Bridge
The current London Bridge is a modern structure that was built in 1973. It replaced the previous bridge designed by John Rennie, which was sold to an American businessman. The new bridge is a box girder design with concrete piers and steel beams.
The London Bridge Experience
Today, visitors to London can explore the history of the city’s famous bridge at the London Bridge Experience. This attraction takes visitors on a journey through time, from the building of the first wooden bridge to the construction of the current modern structure.
- In conclusion, London Bridge has a rich and fascinating history that spans over two millennia. From its humble beginnings as a Roman timber structure to its current incarnation as a modern box girder bridge, it has been witness to some of the most significant events in English history.
Sources:
- https://www.history.com/topics/british-history/london-bridge
- https://www.britannica.com/topic/London-Bridge
- https://www.visitlondon.com/things-to-do/place/381390-london-bridge-experience