Introduction
London Bridge is not just a key landmark; it’s a symbol of the city’s rich history and evolution. But how long did it take to construct this iconic structure? This article will explore various iterations of London Bridge, tracking the time taken to build each one and highlighting intriguing facts along the way.
The Original London Bridge
The very first London Bridge was built by the Romans around AD 50. This wooden structure allowed for easier transportation across the River Thames. The initial construction took approximately 10 years to complete, but it was often damaged and needed repairs that interrupted daily life.
The Medieval Stone Bridge
In 1209, the original wooden bridge was replaced by a stone structure. This medieval version of London Bridge took about 33 years to complete, officially finishing in 1248. The new bridge was designed to accommodate pedestrian traffic and included shops and houses along its length.
- Construction Period: 1209 – 1248
- Architect: Peter de Colechurch
- Notable Feature: 19 arches supporting the bridge
The 19th Century Bridge
As London grew, so did the demand for a more robust and spacious bridge. The medieval bridge, with its narrow arches and shops, was no longer fit for the increasing traffic. In 1825, construction began on a new granite bridge, which officially opened in 1831. It took approximately 6 years to complete.
- Construction Period: 1825 – 1831
- Architect: John Rennie
- Notable Feature: Wider roadway and better traffic flow
The 20th Century Bridge
The 19th-century London Bridge eventually fell out of favor due to its inability to handle modern vehicular traffic. The bridge underwent significant renovations, but ultimately, a new bridge was built. This modern structure opened in 1973 after a 4-year construction period.
- Construction Period: 1968 – 1973
- Architect:**: Peter B. D. Phillips
- Notable Feature: Innovative design focusing on durability and traffic accommodation
Case Study: The Remarkable Move of London Bridge
Interestingly, the 1831 bridge was sold to an American entrepreneur, Robert P. McCulloch, who had it shipped to Lake Havasu City, Arizona, in 1968. McCulloch believed that the bridge would serve as a tourism magnet for the area. He purchased it for $2.46 million, and it took 3 years to rebuild it in its new location.
This interesting case highlights that even though bridges connect areas, they can also have fascinating second lives elsewhere.
Statistics on Traffic and Usage
Today, London Bridge serves as a crucial transit route within London, carrying over 70,000 vehicles and thousands of pedestrians daily. This level of traffic emphasizes the importance of constructing efficient and robust infrastructure over the years.
Conclusion
Over centuries, several iterations of London Bridge have been built, each taking time and effort tailored to the needs of their times. From the original Roman construction taking about 10 years to rebuild in modern times, bridges are a testament to human ingenuity and adaptation. The various phases of construction not only reflect architectural styles but also mirror societal needs and technological advancements over the years.
The evolution of London Bridge is fascinating, reflecting both the history of London and the continuing transformation of urban infrastructure to meet modern demands.