"It represents the vice of tawdriness and pretentiousness, and of
falsification of the actual facts of the structure."
~ H. H.
Statham
"A more absurd structure than the Tower Bridge was never thrown across a strategic river."
~ Frank Brangwyn
Well, fellas. I politely disagree. I happen to think that the Tower Bridge is absolutely stunning! Of course, the fact that it is Victorian also endears it to me. Its versatility and functionality is indisputable. Anyone who watched the Diamond Jubilee flotilla can only admire how the bridge's ability to raise up in order to allow Tall Ships to pass through was put to ingenious use in a salute to Her Majesty. This was made possible because this is a combination bascule and suspension bridge. That's right. I don't know what I am talking about but I feel I am doing it rather well. :) But seriously, the mid section supported by the towers is a bascule bridge (the road can break open and upward) and the two sections on either side of the towers are small suspension bridges. This is not just a feat of engineering, this is a piece of artwork.
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So pretty! |
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I show off the Tower Bridge from the Tower of London. |
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You can just make out the Paralympic symbol on the underside of the walkway. |
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A close-up of the Paralympic agitos on Tower Bridge. |
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A double decker makes its way across Tower Bridge. |
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This is possibly my favoutite just because the sunset light is making it look like the bridge is brooding. |
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Close-up of the suspension aspect of the bridge. |
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I show my excitement after walking across Tower Bridge. :) |
So there you have it. If you are ever walking along the Thames, I can suggest pointing your feet in the direction of Tower Bridge. Excellent engineering, beautiful aesthetics and gorgeous views. No wonder this is one of London's famous landmarks!
Next post: Another of London's engineering feats - The Tube!
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