Arlington Memorial Bridge
Arlington Memorial Bridge, Neoclassical arch bridge at National Mall, United States
Arlington Memorial Bridge is an arch bridge in Washington that spans 652 meters across the Potomac River with eight granite arches, linking the Lincoln Memorial to Arlington National Cemetery. The neoclassical structure in white granite rests on massive piers rising from the riverbed and carries six traffic lanes plus sidewalks on both sides for pedestrians.
Construction began in 1926 after President Harding experienced a massive traffic jam during the dedication ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Completion came in 1932 when the bridge was officially inaugurated, creating the first fixed connection between the capital and Virginia for automobile traffic.
Granite eagles at both ends guard the crossing with spread wings, each standing over four meters tall. Bison reliefs and decorative urns along the balustrade recall the American wilderness and national unity.
Sidewalks on both sides allow pedestrians and cyclists to cross with views of the river and surrounding monuments. Early morning or late evening offers quieter conditions for a walk, as traffic lessens during those hours.
The central section contained the longest and fastest-opening bascule span in the world when completed in 1932, though it rarely opened. The bascule mechanism ceased operating in 1961 after river traffic declined sharply in this stretch.
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