San Francisco - Golden Gate Bridge

The steel bridge has impressive dimensions, its length is 2.7 km, the span of the pillars is 1280 m, and the road with its six lanes and sidewalk runs at a height of 67 meters above sea level.

Until 1964, it was the longest suspension bridge in the world, and in the 21st century it is the most famous landmark of San Francisco. It is also easily recognizable due to its distinctive orange color and the design of its two pillars. According to the ranking of the American Society of Civil Engineers, this building is one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.

Construction began on January 5, 1933, and the bridge was opened after four years on May 27, 1937. Around 25,000 workers were involved in the construction, 11 of whom died during construction.

The bridge is painted in a characteristic orange color. The color was chosen because it is visible in the fog that often covers the bridge in these places. The bridge is built to withstand strong winds and earthquakes.

The bridge has a total weight of 887,000 tons and is connected by a total of 600,000 rivets. Its towers reach a height of 227 meters, making them the tallest suspension bridge towers in the US until 1993.

The bridge is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the world. Millions of people visit it every year to cross it on foot, by bike or by car. The bridge is also a popular spot for photographers and artists. Its beauty has been captured in countless photographs, paintings and films.

There is an information center – the Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center – at the large parking lot and bus station on the south side of the bridge. Next to the information center, it is possible to view the cutting of the supporting rope. The supporting ropes have a length of 2331.7 meters with a diameter of 92.4 cm and are woven from 27572 strands.

Under the bridge is Fort Point, protecting the entrance to San Francisco Bay.

On average, more than 100,000 cars cross the bridge every day. There is a toll here, only southbound (to the city of San Francisco). Tolls are collected electronically and can only be paid a few days after crossing. The bridge can be crossed on foot or by bicycle for free.

It is often cold and windy on the bridge, especially in the summertime fogs are very common. The bridge is ready for challenging weather, in extreme wind it will deflect to the side by an incredible 8.4 meters!
When preparing for a walk on the bridge, it is good to remember to have enough clothing.

The bridge offers stunning views of the city and San Francisco Bay in good visibility.