Clifton Suspension Bridge which spans the Avon Gorge is one of the world's greatest bridges. It was designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel who was just 24-years-old when he won the commission to build the bridge. Construction began in 1831 but the project was beset by political and financial difficulties. By 1843, with only the towers completed, the project was abandoned. The bridge was finally completed and opened in 1864. This engineering masterpiece is made up of 3,500 load bearing bolts and giant chains that stretch 20 miles underground. The bridge's total span is 702 feet and it sits majestically 245 feet above the water below at high tide. Today it is one of Bristol's icons, and despite being designed to cater for horse drawn traffic, it now copes with 11-12,000 vehicles crossing it every day. The bridge is a lasting testament to Brunel's great engineering brain. | 
