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Bridges can be simple devices to carry us from one area to another. At times they can represent architectural beauty and design. In Algeria, the bridges of Constantine are picturesque and awe-provoking. The city of Constantine is home to some of the most striking of these structures worldwide. Take a glimpse at these monolithic marvels of Algeria.
The Constantine Province lays in Northeast Algeria. It’s capital city of the same name is home to a number of bridges that have great impact on the viewer. With a population of over 750,000 citizens, Constantine is the third largest city in Algeria. Notable Algerians born in Constantine include Nobel Prize winner in Physics Claude Cohen-Tannoudji, World Boxing Champion Alphonse Halimi, and distance runner Hassiba Boulmerka. Boulmerka is noted as the first Algerian to win an Olympic title.
The el-Kantara Bridge is an amazingly striking structure that stretches 420 feet (130 meters)across a gorge. The dimensions of its width vary from 15 feet to an expansive 1,200 feet. El-Kantara provides main access to the city. The bridge went through a series of restorations to preserve it in its state today. This bridge is worthy of postcards and paintings. Its natural beauty catches the eye.
The Sidi M’Cid Bridge is an Algerian icon in Constantine. This breathtaking suspension bridge opened to the public in April 1912. The 525 feet long suspension bridge connects the casbah to Sidi M’Cid hill. A distance of 575 feet dangles between the Sidi M’Cid bridge to the river gorge below. The bridge of Sidi Rached spans just over 1,466 feet long and 39 feet wide. Its curved arches can be seen printed on postcards.
The Mellah Slimane is a pedestrian bridge constructed between 1917 and 1925. This bridge stretches forward 410 feet long and connects the railway station with the center of the old town.
The Algerian bridges of Constantine are dramatic and can never be forgotten.
