Bridge of Sighs, Covered footbridge at St John's College, Cambridge, England
Description
The Bridge of Sighs is a covered footbridge at St John's College in Cambridge, England, spanning the River Cam. The structure links two college areas through stone arches and windows that recall medieval construction.
History
Henry Hutchinson designed the crossing in 1827 as part of the western expansion of St John's College, and work was completed in 1831. The structure later received Grade I listed building status.
Culture
The name of this crossing comes from Venice, where a similar enclosed bridge spans a canal, though the Cambridge version was built much later. Many observers follow the riverbank gazing upward and photograph the arches reflected in the water.
Practical
The crossing serves as an internal passage for college members and remains closed to the public, but it can be seen well from the riverbank. Boat tours on the Cam offer a close view from below, and access to public riverside paths is free.
Did you know?
Students suspended two cars beneath the crossing in 1963 and 1968, using punts and ropes to position the vehicles. These pranks attracted great attention at the time and became legends of college life.
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