Arch bridges have stood the test of time as marvels of engineering and design, dating back to the 4th century BC when Greek builders first harnessed the power of arches to conquer challenging river crossings.
These structures are more than just functional pathways—they’ve become iconic landmarks that define city skylines and capture the imagination of millions worldwide. From ancient to modern times, arch bridges showcase a stunning blend of strength and elegance.
Spanning continents and cultures, some arch bridges have gained fame not only for their impressive size and innovative construction but also for their cultural and historical significance.
Whether it’s the striking Sydney Harbour Bridge or the majestic Tower Bridge in London, these architectural wonders continue to inspire awe and admiration.
1. Sydney Harbour Bridge
The Sydney Harbour Bridge, nicknamed “The Coathanger” for its steel arch design, is Australia’s most iconic arch bridge. Opened in 1932, it stands 440 feet tall, making it the world’s tallest steel arch bridge.
Stretching 1,650 feet in length and 160 feet wide, it was the world’s widest long-span bridge until 2012. The bridge supports rail, vehicular, bicycle, and pedestrian traffic, connecting Sydney’s CBD to the North Shore.
Tourists can climb its steel structure through BridgeClimb Tours to enjoy breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour and the Opera House.
2. Chaotianmen Bridge
Completed in 2009, the Chaotianmen Bridge in Chongqing, China, holds the record as the world’s longest through arch bridge, spanning 1,741 feet. It connects the city’s busy urban districts across the Yangtze River, supporting six lanes of traffic and pedestrian walkways.
This steel arch bridge showcases advanced engineering with a single arch rib, allowing graceful curves and significant load capacity.
Its design not only improves transportation efficiency but also enhances Chongqing’s skyline, blending functionality and aesthetic appeal seamlessly.
3. Bayonne Bridge
The Bayonne Bridge, completed in 1931, ranks as the sixth-longest through arch steel bridge worldwide.
Designed by renowned engineer Othmar Ammann, it spans 5,780 feet, connecting New Jersey Route 440 across Staten Island and Bayonne.
Ammann collaborated with architect Cass Gilbert, who ensured optimal weight distribution in the bridge’s design.
This iconic New Jersey landmark combines historic engineering with stunning arch aesthetics, making it a vital transportation route and a celebrated architectural achievement.
4. New River Gorge Bridge
Completed in 1977, the New River Gorge Bridge spans 3,030 feet across the New River Gorge near Fayetteville, West Virginia.
It boasts a single steel arch rising 876 feet above the river, making it the third-highest vehicular bridge in the U.S. Designed by the Michael Baker Company under Clarence V. Knudsen and built by American Bridge, it used CorTen steel for corrosion resistance.
This engineering marvel drastically cut travel time across the treacherous gorge and remains a popular tourist attraction known for its stunning views and annual Bridge Day festival.
5. Zhijing River Bridge
The Zhijing River Bridge, located in Badong County, Hubei, China, stands 964 feet above the river, making it one of the highest arch bridges worldwide.
Completed in 2009, this concrete-filled steel tubular arch bridge spans approximately 1,410 feet, ranking among China’s longest arch bridges.
It carries the West Hurong Highway, connecting travelers through tunnels at each end. Its impressive height and length combine advanced engineering with breathtaking natural scenery, marking it as a key infrastructure achievement and tourist attraction in the region.
6. Rialto Bridge
Known as Venice’s first bridge to span the Grand Canal, the Rialto Bridge was completed in 1591 by architect Antonio da Ponte.
This single-arched limestone structure, crafted from precisely cut Istrian stone, connects the bustling San Polo and San Marco districts.
Its two inclined ramps carry shops on both sides, symbolizing Venice’s historical commercial importance.
Despite early doubts about its engineering, the bridge has stood strong for over 400 years, making it one of the most iconic Renaissance arch bridges worldwide and a must-see landmark for visitors exploring Venice’s waterways.
7. Ponte Vecchio
Standing over the Arno River in Florence, Italy, the Ponte Vecchio is a medieval marvel rebuilt in 1345 after devastating floods. Its three segmental arches span 30 meters for the main arch and 27 meters each for the sides.
Uniquely, this stone closed-spandrel arch bridge hosts shops, primarily jewelers and art dealers today, continuing its historic tradition.
The second story, added in 1565, restored its Renaissance charm with bustling market life once more. Remarkably, it survived World War II intact, making it one of Europe’s oldest and most iconic arch bridges.
8. Mingzhou Bridge
Stretching 4,100 feet across the Yong River in Ningbo, Zhejiang, China, the Mingzhou Bridge ranks among the world’s largest arch bridges.
It spans roughly 150 feet wide, supporting multiple lanes of traffic in both directions. Construction began in 2008 and took three years to complete, opening to the public in 2011.
Known as the Mingzhou Great Bridge, its innovative design took years of development to ensure strength and durability.
Serving as a vital transportation link, this massive arch bridge exemplifies modern engineering excellence and significantly improves regional connectivity.
9. Stari Most
Stari Most, also known as the Old Bridge, is a 16th-century Ottoman masterpiece in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Spanning 95 feet long and 13 feet wide over the Neretva River, its single limestone arch soars 60.6 feet above the water.
Built in 1557, it remained intact for centuries until its destruction in 1993 during the Croat-Bosniak War.
Rebuilt in 2004 with original materials, the pedestrian-only bridge is famous for its stunning design and annual diving competition, symbolizing local heritage and manhood traditions.
10. Stone Arch Bridge (Saint Anthony Falls)
Built in 1883, the Stone Arch Bridge in Minneapolis spans 2,100 feet across the Mississippi River near Saint Anthony Falls. It features 23 granite and limestone arches, showcasing remarkable 19th-century masonry.
Originally a railway bridge, it now serves pedestrians and cyclists, offering scenic views of the falls and downtown.
Its durable design distributes weight efficiently, making it an enduring landmark and a testament to historic arch bridge engineering in the United States.
Alicia Richards