Bridges are quite a wonder. We take them for granted, driving or biking or walking across with nary a thought of what a complex structure lies beneath us, supporting and safely transporting to the other side.

Imagine, if you can, a world without bridges. Brooklyn wouldn’t have its Manhattan, San Francisco wouldn’t have its Marin County, and Florence would be one-less a fabulous landmark…not to mention that huge inconveniences we’d suffer. Practical and often works of art, these structures have literally bridged the way for ease of travel, commerce, and in the case of the Romans…conquering.