Top 10 Ancient Bridges Still Standing Today

Anji Bridge, also known as Zhaozhou, stands as one of China's oldest bridges. Constructed from 595 to 605, it is a sturdy stone bridge with a graceful arch connecting the banks of the Hao River. Designed by the master craftsman Li Xuan, the ambition was to make it the world's most resilient bridge.

True to its purpose, the bridge has endured for over 1,400 years, weathering rain, bombings, wars, at least 8 fierce battles, massive floods, and numerous devastating earthquakes. Up to this day, the bridge has undergone only 9 renovations, maintaining its original form. The American Society of Civil Engineers has honored Anji Bridge as the 12th milestone among international civil engineering projects. Not only that, but the bridge has also been awarded a beautifully crafted bronze monument.

Also known as the “Severan Bridge,” built in the 2nd century in the city of Kommagenean, Turkey, Cendere is made of 92 stone blocks, each weighing around 10 tons, with lengths and widths of 120m and 7m, respectively. The bridge was constructed to honor the Roman Emperor Septimius Severus, his wife Julia, and their two sons, Caracalla and Geta. Cendere Bridge has a long history and is considered the second-largest Roman-built arch bridge.

On both sides of the bridge's columns, each side represents members of the royal family – Emperor Severus and wife Julia on one side and the other side belonging to the two sons. If you look closely, you'll notice that the column representing the son Geta is missing. This is because during the succession rivalry, Caracalla, the older brother, assassinated Geta. Many sources suggest that at that time, Geta died in the arms of his mother. Caracalla went to extremes by pushing Geta's friends and allies to their deaths. In an effort to completely erase Geta's legacy, Caracalla ordered that any reference to the name Geta would be wiped from history, and the column representing Geta was destroyed.

Arkadiko Bridge was built around 1300-1190 BCE and remarkably maintains its original form to this day. It holds the distinction of being the oldest stone bridge in the world still in existence and use. The bridge connects the cities of Tiryns and Epidaurus.

The bridge's head section is designed to be about 2.5 meters wider than other pedestrian bridge structures of that time. According to historical research, constructing such a wide bridge aimed to facilitate the smooth passage of cargo-carrying vehicles without the concerns of congestion or queuing. Moreover, the material used to build this bridge consists of 100% limestone blocks, truly astonishing! The bridge has endured the test of time, thanks to the precisely fitted limestone blocks holding steadfast together.

Khaju is constructed upon the foundation of a pre-existing bridge dating back to before 1667. Beyond its convenience for local transit, the bridge also serves as a dam and water regulator for the entire city.

Today, the bridge still stands with 23 arches, measuring 105 meters in length and 14 meters in width. It serves as a connection between the Khaju and Zoroastrian neighborhoods. As night falls, you'll experience the full charm of this ancient and magnificent bridge, exuding a gentle and elegant aura.

Pons Fabricius Bridge is another testament to resilience, standing tall against the test of time, natural disasters, and wars. Designed by Lucius Fabricius in 62 BCE, it was initially intended to replace a previously burned wooden bridge. Lucius personally oversaw the construction, evident by his name inscribed at four different points on the bridge.

After a major flood in Vepidus in 23 BCE, two rulers, Marcus Lollius and Quintus Aemilius, implemented a series of regulations to ensure the preservation of this architectural marvel.

This ancient bridge was commissioned by Emperor Hadrian in 136 BCE. Little known is its embodiment of Emperor Hadrian's indulgence, as he had it built for the sole purpose of ensuring that every corner of the city of Rome could easily gaze towards his mausoleum after his passing. This mausoleum is known as Castel Sant’Angelo, meaning Castle of the Angel.

Previously, in 590 BCE, it was believed that angels descended to the city and stood on the top of the castle, helping to ward off the plague during that time. In 1668, the skilled sculptor Lorenzo Bernini carved sculptures of the 10 legendary angels on the bridge.

Constructed in 1345, when a wooden bridge in the city of Florence was heavily damaged after a flood. On either side of the bridge, there is a row of small shops trading various goods. In the 1700s, this bridge was the focal point for Italy's largest artisan and meat shops.

However, today, they have been replaced by jewelers and art shops, selling souvenir items. Additionally, the bridge is adorned with numerous padlocks, intriguing many tourists.

When in Italy, you certainly can't miss the ancient bridge named the “Bridge of Sighs” in Yemen. Shaharah. It was built in the 17th century and serves as a connection between the two mountains, Jabal al Emir and Jabal al Faish.

The bridge is approximately 200 meters long and has facilitated the movement of the local people, making it quicker and more convenient. Moreover, it is the only way to reach the town of Shaharah.

This bridge was constructed in 1591 and designed by the architect Antonio da Ponte. At that time, this architect had a fierce competition for the design rights of the bridge with two sculptors, Michelangelo and Palladio. However, when the bridge was completed, it received mixed reviews due to its peculiar appearance. Nevertheless, after enduring various changes, the Rialto stone bridge remains the oldest bridge in Venice.

The bridge spans the clear and picturesque Grand Canal and serves as a witness to countless declarations of love and engagements. Not only that, it has also been featured in numerous works of art by various artists and in different films.

Located in Exmoor, the Tarr Steps bridge is constructed with stacked stone slabs and was built thousands of years ago. In fact, the true age of this bridge is still unknown due to its unique structural style. According to some information, it was initiated more than 3000 years BC. However, in other ancient documents, it is determined to have been around 1500 years BC.

There is a legend that a demon built this bridge with the purpose of preventing outsiders from crossing, or they would perish. The locals, skeptical of this, threw a cat across the bridge, and the poor cat vanished in seconds. Subsequently, the villagers sent someone from the community to negotiate, and it agreed with the condition that: as long as the demon sunbathes, the prohibition order will persist, and no one is allowed to step on this bridge.