The hanging bridge in Bilbao, one of the few of its kind, is called the Vizcaya bridge or more commonly as Puente Colgante. Built over the Nervion River, this bridge serves to connect the towns of Portugalete and Las Arenas in the Biscay province of Spain. Alberto de Palacio is the architect who designed it in 1887. It was finally built in 1893 and is one of the oldest bridges of its kind.

Though it is called a hanging bridge, its structure differs a lot from a normal suspension bridge. Its architect, a prime disciple of The Eiffel tower’s architect was praised much for this design. It solved the problem of connecting the two towns as it did not obstruct the marine traffic on the port Bilbao.

Considering its age and history, UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site. This bridge is significant since it marked a development in the transport system of the 21st century. It has been a constant landmark and suffered damages only once during the Spanish Civil War. The firing and bombarding then almost collapsed the bridge.

Its restoration was a source of many a debates. However finally it was decided that the bridge’s structure would not be modernized. As a mark of respect they would stick to the original structure as much as possible. However it absolutely requisite changes were brought about. To make it more compatible with the modern methods the passenger control systems were renewed and new gondolas were also installed.

Its recent refurbishment has made it not only a comfortable transport medium but also preserved it as an industrial era monument. This bridge is one you must walk upon.