London Bridge

The history of London Bridge is a fascinating journey that spans more than 2,000 years. The bridge has been rebuilt and redesigned several times, reflecting the changing needs of the city of London and its people. The story of London Bridge is also closely intertwined with the history of the River Thames and the city of London itself.

The Roman Period and the First Wooden Bridge

The first recorded bridge across the River Thames was built by the Romans in AD 50, near the site of the current London Bridge. The bridge was built of wood and was designed to facilitate the movement of troops and supplies from the south of England to the Roman city of Londinium, which was located on the north bank of the river. The bridge was around 800 feet long and had a width of around 15 feet.

The bridge was destroyed by Queen Boudica and her army in AD 60 or 61 during a rebellion against Roman rule. It was rebuilt soon after, and over the centuries, it was repaired and rebuilt several times. However, it remained a wooden structure until the 12th century.

The Stone Bridge and Medieval Period

The first stone bridge was built in the 12th century during the reign of King Henry II. The bridge was designed by Peter of Colechurch and was a major engineering feat of its time, with 20 arches and a chapel dedicated to St. Thomas Becket located on the bridge. The bridge was also lined with houses and shops, creating a bustling and vibrant atmosphere. This bridge became an important center of trade and commerce, connecting the city of London to the southern counties of England.

In the medieval period, London Bridge was the only bridge across the Thames in London, and it was a vital transportation link. Goods and people would travel over the bridge, and it was an important source of revenue for the city. The shops and houses on the bridge were an integral part of the trade and commerce, and the bridge became a center for social and cultural life in the city.

During the Tudor period, London Bridge became a site of political and religious conflict. The heads of traitors were often displayed on spikes on the bridge as a warning to others, and the bridge was also the site of public executions. One of the most famous executions was that of William Wallace, the Scottish hero who was hanged, drawn and quartered on the bridge in 1305.

The 18th and 19th Centuries and the Modern London Bridge

In the 18th and 19th centuries, London Bridge became increasingly congested as the city's population grew, and more people travelled by horse and carriage. The old bridge was no longer able to cope with the volume of traffic, and it was extensively renovated and widened to accommodate the increasing traffic. The old houses and shops were demolished, and a new, more substantial bridge was built.

The current London Bridge was completed in 1972 and is a modern concrete and steel structure. The bridge has a length of around 928 feet and a width of around 105 feet. It was designed by architect Lord Holford and engineer Mott, Hay and Anderson.

During World War II, London Bridge was an important target for German bombers. Despite sustaining significant damage, the bridge remained standing and played a crucial role in the war effort. The bridge was also used as a symbol of hope and resilience during the war, with a famous song "London Bridge is Falling Down" being sung by children as a way to boost morale.

Today, London Bridge is an iconic symbol of the city of London and a popular tourist attraction. It remains an important transportation link, connecting the north and south banks of the River Thames, and is also home to a number of notable landmarks, including the Tower Bridge and the Tower of London. The bridge has been