The Old Bridge, Pontypridd

Image: © Jaggery Taken: 21 Apr 2010

Viewed from alongside the River Taff, on Sion Street. http://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/1827529 When built in 1750, this was the longest single-span bridge in the world, with a span of 45 metres (140 feet). The first bridge in this location was a wooden bridge. It was washed away by floods. The second bridge, of stone, collapsed during construction because it could not support its own weight. The third design, the bridge seen here, is also stone, but lighter because of the six large holes in it, three on each side. Three holes on the right side can be seen in this view. This design was obviously successful, as the bridge has stood for more than 250 years. However, in 1857, a three-arch bridge was built alongside to make it easier for traffic to cross the river. The old bridge was a bit steep for laden horse-drawn carts. The newer bridge has pavements http://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/1827501, so it is not necessary for pedestrians to use the old bridge, but many do (including this contributor), for the views. The bridge was Grade I listed (the highest category) in 1962 as an 18th century civil engineering achievement of national importance.

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