This graceful construction isn’t as old as it looks. It was designed by Sir Thomas Jackson in 1913 to link the Old and New Quads of Hertford College, which are separated by New College Lane. No one calls it by its original name, Hertford Bridge, because of the perceived resemblance to its more famous namesake in the Italian city of Venice.*
*From the Pitkin City Guide to Oxford
It fits in admirably. We have a similar bridge, though not as graceful, in Bath.The “bridge” actually hides large pipes taking hot water from the Roman Baths to a laundry (which no longer exists). But what a good idea!
That sounds like a fascinating bridge. It is a long time since I last visited Bath, I do not remember the bridge…
‘Tis a Handsome structure! ‘Fitting and with some elegance. Bridges between buildings these days are just glass boxes. It seems even in 1913 they still retained some style and merit. Perhaps it was the last gasp. Sigh !
I suspect those glass boxes are cheaper to construct. But I am sure they will not last as long as classic architecture, such as this bridge.
Was it ever spotted in ‘Morse’. ?
We will have to inquire of a Morse aficionado
I prefer the one in Cambridge, and over water too.
But maybe that is because of memories (but not all good).
I have not been to Cambridge, but as mentioned recently it is on my list for later in the year due to my readers comments and recommendation
“I have not been to Cambridge”
What!!!???
I am stunned, given all the places you have been to.
I await the photos. You’ve never been to King’s College Chapel? (I suppose the answer must be no. And it aint really a mere “chapel”). You’ve never been to The Backs? (I suppose not).
Still stunned.
This was my first visit to Oxford
Cambridge is top of the list for an autumn visit this year. You will have to tell me the best places ‘to visit’
The Bridge of Sighs at Oxford is a wonderful piece of architecture famous around the world Cherie… we went under the original one in Venice a few times but not this one….peter:)
Venice is another place that I have never been
I am glad that this bridge was built in the same style as the two buildings. It looks old and wonder if it could talk, what stories it could tell
The bridge fits perfectly in its surroundings.
I am sure the bridge keeps many secrets
It always troubles me why this is called The Bridge of Sighs. Ok the idea of crossing the gap is there although nothing like the real Bridge of Sighs. The reality is a bland connection between a palace and a prison. The structure looks more like the glorious Rialto Bridge … which reminds me (despite a recent cancelled trip to Barcelona with Yorkshire friends) that Venice is top of list of European places to return to. I was disappointed with the camera shop developing back in 2007 and also my style is a little different these days.
I find my style has developed over the years too. These days I am much more adventurous and far more prolific. This is due to digital technology allowing me to experiment without spending lots of money on failures…