Millennium Bridge
Millennium Bridge. St. Paul’s Cathedral in the background
The Millennium Bridge is a pedestrian suspension bridge that spans the River Thames in London, England. It connects the Tate Modern art museum on the south bank of the river with the City of London financial district on the north bank. The bridge is a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike, offering stunning views of the river and the city skyline.
The bridge was opened in 2000, to coincide with the start of the new millennium. It was designed by architects Norman Foster and Anthony Caro, and engineering firm Arup. The bridge's sleek, modern design was intended to contrast with the historic buildings of the City of London, and it has become an iconic part of the city's landscape.
The bridge measures 325 meters (1,066 feet) in length and is constructed from steel, with a deck made of non-slip materials. The suspension cables that support the bridge are made of high-strength steel, and the deck is suspended from them by steel rods. The bridge can accommodate up to 5,000 pedestrians at a time.
One of the unique features of the Millennium Bridge is its "wobbly" effect. In the weeks after it opened, it became apparent that the bridge was swaying slightly as people walked across it. This was caused by a phenomenon known as synchronous lateral excitation, in which the natural walking rhythm of pedestrians caused the bridge to vibrate. The issue was eventually resolved with the installation of dampers, and the bridge now provides a smooth and stable crossing for pedestrians.
The Millennium Bridge is not only a functional pedestrian bridge but also an important cultural landmark. It has been used in a number of films, television shows, and music videos, and it is often featured in photographs of the London skyline. With its striking design and unique engineering, the Millennium Bridge is a testament to human creativity and innovation, and a must-see destination for anyone visiting London
Date: October 2019
Additional information: Wikipedia