Amazing Bridges of the World (part II)    [12-06-2009] Last week, we took a close look at a few famous and amazing bridges of the world. This week, we will also take a trip to some countries to learn more about wonderful bridges. Why don’t you visit one of them during your summer vacation with your family? ★ Henderson Waves Bridge in Singapore Henderson Waves Bridge is the most beautiful pedestrian bridge in the world. It is the highest pedestrian bridge in Singapore. It is 36 meters tall and 300 meters long. The beautiful wave-shaped bridge was opened to the public on May 10, 2008. While walking along the bridge, you can enjoy the beautiful views of Singapore. It takes about 3 hours to cross the bridge on foot. ★ Ponte Vecchio Bridge in Italy The Ponte Vecchio is the most famous bridge in Italy. “Ponte Vecchio” means “old bridge” in Italian. It is the oldest wholly-stone bridge in Europe. It was built in the Middle Ages over the Arno River in Florence. At first, it was built of wood. But in 1333, it was destroyed by floods. Twelve years later in 1345, it was rebuilt using stone. Many shops were built along the bridge. Surprisingly, the shops are still there today! You can see lots of jewelry shops, art shops and souvenir shops there. You can even see meat shops! ★ Rolling Bridge in England Rolling Bridge is one of the most unique bridges in the world. The 12-meter-long bridge is very special. It is a movable bridge that can curl up! When extended, it looks like a normal bridge. But it slowly curls up to form an octagonal shape when boats have to pass by. It was built by a British designer named Thomas Heatherwick in 2004 in London. The Rolling Bridge curls up every Friday at noon. The bridge won the British Structural Steel Design Award in 2005. ★ Oliveira Bridge in Brazil Oliveira Bridge is the world’s first X-shaped cable-stayed bridge. It is located in Sao Paulo. It was opened in May, 2008. The bridge is 138 meters tall. Its design is very unique. The 2 curved decks of the bridge cross each other through its X-shaped supporting tower. The amazing bridge has 144 steel cables.     출처: 어린이 영자신문 키즈타임즈 (www.kidstimes.net)