Forth Railway Bridge in Scotland is a marvel of engineering and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It spans the Firth of Forth, connecting Edinburgh with Fife, and serves more than 200 trains per day.
The bridge was built between 1882 and 1890, and it was the first major steel bridge in the world. It has a total length of 2.5 km and a height of 110 m above the water. The bridge consists of three double cantilevers, each supported by two massive stone piers. The cantilevers are connected by slender girder spans, creating a distinctive silhouette that can be seen from miles away.
The bridge is not only a functional transport link, but also a symbol of Scottish identity and pride. It has been featured in many films, books, and artworks, such as Alfred Hitchcock’s The 39 Steps, Ian Rankin’s Rebus novels, and John Singer Sargent’s painting The Forth Bridge. The bridge is also a popular tourist attraction, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
The Forth Railway Bridge is truly a masterpiece of human ingenuity and creativity. It is a testament to the vision and perseverance of the engineers, architects, and workers who built it.