Bridges Explained

Bridges are the keys to communication and transport. But though functional, they also have an aesthetic and environmental value.

Graceful and spectacular, they evoke a wide range of emotions. Yet few have visitor centres and the public's obvious questions--such as how they were built; what a particular part does; why they don't fall down--are not often answered in simple terms.

In this book, Trevor Yorke uses diagrams, drawings and photographs to explain the basic principles of their construction and style. It divides into five sections--the first is a general background; then it discusses the arched bridges; then come other, later forms of bridge; fourthly, viaducts and aqueducts; finally, a quick reference guide with a list of bridges to visit.