As one of the world’s most iconic structures, the Sydney Harbour Bridge stands out.
Not only is it the world’s biggest steel arch bridge; but it also crosses one of the world’s most beautiful natural harbors. Locals call it the Coat Hanger, and you may walk or bicycle across it; or climb to the top for spectacular views.
A Brief History Of The Sydney Harbour Bridge
When Europeans came to Sydney for the first time; they settled in the area around Sydney Cove on the harbor’s southern side.
As the town expanded, residents began to migrate to the north shore; yet, access to the north shore required crossing the water by boat or walking around the port. Soon after, people began to discuss the possibility of building a bridge connecting the north and south coastlines.
Those objectives would need more than a century. 4 government bridge plan contests and more than 70 designs to do. In 1878, a floating bridge connecting the two sides of the harbor was suggested. A tunnel beneath the port proposes in 1885. Sydney and its northern suburbs continued to rise in population. Dr. John Bradfield was appointed engineer in 1912 to build a bridge to cross the port.
But development halted in 1914 when World War I began. The State Library of NSW includes several drawings of proposed Harbor Bridge designs; and various bridge designs may examine in 3D using the State Library’s Bridge Explorer facility. Following World War I, the government decided to proceed with the construction of the bridge, which would consist of a single arch over the lake.
Construction on both sides began in 1922, and they met in the center in 1930.
The road and railway platforms were later built. On 19 March 1932, Sydney Harbor Bridge inaugurate with a large ceremony.
10 Fascinating The Sydney Harbour Bridge Facts
Here are some Sydney’s Harbour Bridge facts that will amaze you;
1400 Employees Completed The Bridge In 8 Years
The Sydney Harbor Bridge was a mammoth undertaking, requiring the abilities of 1400 people over an eight-year period. They assembled the bridge using 53,000 tonnes of steel and nearly 6 million hand-driven rivets.The work required 272,000 liters of paint to complete.
A Massive Steel Arch Bridge
One word sums up Sydney Harbor Bridge; gigantic! Sydney Harbor Bridge. The 134m-tall arch stretches 503m over Sydney Harbor from Dawes Point to Milsons Point. It is not the world’s longest bridge that distinction belongs to the Port Mann Bridge in the US; but it is undoubtedly the largest of its kind.
Continually Repainting The Bridge
This Sydney bridge is continually painted; both to maintain its appearance and to protect it from the weather. It takes a crew of 100 people and two robots to apply the paint. Because the bridge is so big, they must restart the procedure after they complete it!
The Bridge’s Arch Changes Over Time
The Sydney Harbor Bridge’s towering arch can really alter height in response to the weather by 18cm. This is due to variations in weather; which causes the bridge to expand and contract in response to excessive heat or cold.
Its Steel Comes From Across The Globe
Almost 80 percent of the steel used in the bridge’s construction (which weighs about 52,800 tonnes) was shipped from the UK.
It traveled halfway around the world before applying to the bridge’s construction.
The Bridge’s Four Pylons Are For Show
The Sydney Harbor Bridge is well-known for its four enormous pylons at each corner; which form an imposing appearance and provide the bridge its magnificence.
One of the most fascinating facts about Bridge is that these four pylons are ornamental; and have no use other than to enhance the bridge’s aesthetic!
The Bridge Inaugurate Twice
The inauguration of the Sydney Harbor Bridge marks a spectacular celebration; to celebrate Australia’s recovery from the Depression.
Shortly before the formal opening; Francis de Groot is a member of the extreme right-wing New Guard group. Mounted his horse and sliced the ribbon with a sword.
It Took 16 Lives To Build It
The building of the Sydney Harbor Bridge required a massive effort; and working conditions were sometimes risky. 16 persons died in accidents during the eight-year building period.
Aussies Paid For The Bridge Until 1988
The Sydney Harbor Bridge’s construction was prohibitively expensive. Costing close to £10 million in total. The entire loan was not repaid until 1988.
Even A Wedding May Be Held On The Sydney Harbor Bridge
The Sydney Harbor Bridge Climb is not just for visitors and celebrities seeking the greatest view.
It is also feasible to tie the knot from the top!
Stephen Tierney and Claire Tullan of Scotland became the first couple to marry on the bridge, in June 2008.
Why Is The Sydney Harbour Bridge So Well-Known?
From a Sydney viewpoint, it is one of the city’s most vital thoroughfares. Carrying one of the country’s main roadways and train lines, close the bridge. People need to go from one side of the city to the other; whether by automobile, bus, or train, and the Harbor Bridge serves that purpose.
It is the sole rail route connecting the north and south sides of the port until the metro line was complete.
It is one of the busiest roads connecting north and south. The bridge is another vital route that connects the city’s busiest areas. It also relaxes people who return home via plane or cruise ship.
Once you see the coat hanging, you’ve arrived. It is a representation of beauty. Being the world’s largest bridge in its design; it is positioned on one of the world’s most stunning natural harbors. It’s an excellent viewing platform for viewing the port.
And is visible from practically anyplace in downtown’s northern section. The surroundings are stunning and showcase some of nature’s most breathtaking views. Given its closeness to the Opera House, which is an architectural marvel within itself. When capturing the Harbor Bridge from the southern side; you have a wonderful view of downtown, as well as the Opera House. It’s an ideal downtown position, the fact that it crosses the Harbor.
Its proximity to the Opera House all combines to make it a photogenic monument that represents the city.
Things To Do At Sydney Harbour Bridge
On the eastern side, there is a bridge walk. The walk includes the beautiful south-eastern Pylon Lookout. On the western side of the bridge, there is a cycling path. BridgeClimb is a unique experience that takes you to the peak for 360-degree views;
over Sydney and the surrounding area. Take a boat to see the bridge from a different viewpoint.
Additionally, a harbor tour is a lovely choice. For further details and more interesting stuff stay with us: The Australia Time
