Top picture shows how the bridge that connected one of the arms of the Grand Harbour to the Valletta side has been since the end of World War II. The bridge, two- arch double spanned, was supported by 2 pylons. It was damaged when a brave but futile attempt was made by Italian Navy e-boats to invade Malta’s Grand Harbour in 1942. What was left of the damaged structure was then removed for safety reasons and, since then, the remaining 1 pylon and part of another of the bridge were left as a symbol of the war years. I took this picture earlier this year when it was made known that government intended to rebuild the bridge.
Bottom picture shows how the bridge looks today after the reconstruction of around a month ago. It is a single span steel bridge, 70 metres long weighing around 190 tonnes with a single arched truss. Its proportions are similar to the original bridge in terms of height to span ratio. The pylon and part pylon have been retained for posterity only and the bridge does not rest on them.
What a fantastic bridge!!! You post the most amazing pictures Dione, and like I have said before.....each one is a history lesson!!!
Wish to get as good someday!!!
Thank you all sooo much for your lovely comments. To answer Rick's remark I may add that the bridge has always been a foot bridge. It’s main scope was to provide access to a small lighthouse at the tip on this arm of the breakwater (not shown in the picture) which lights the harbour entrance for ships entering or leaving port at night. I don’t know if the lighthouse is still operational but the bridge has been restored solely for esthetic reasons and is not open to the public.
Wish to get as good someday!!!