Bridge of Sighs (Oxford) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Hertford Bridge |
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Hertford Bridge from Catte Street
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| Alternative names | Bridge of Sighs |
| General information | |
| Type | Covered bridge |
| Location | Hertford College, Oxford |
| Coordinates | 51°45′16″N 1°15′14″W / 51.75447°N 1.25389°W |
| Completed | 1914 |
| Design and construction | |
| Architect | Thomas Graham Jackson |
Hertford Bridge, often called the Bridge of Sighs, is a special covered bridge in Oxford, England. It connects two parts of Hertford College right over New College Lane. This bridge has a very unique look, making it a famous spot in the city.
What is the Bridge of Sighs?
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People often call this bridge the "Bridge of Sighs." This is because it looks a bit like a much older, more famous bridge in Venice, Italy, which also has that name.
There's a fun story, but it's not true! The legend says that long ago, students at Hertford College were getting a bit heavy. So, the college supposedly closed the bridge. This was to make students use the stairs more for exercise. But actually, if students don't use the bridge, they end up climbing fewer stairs. It's just a myth!
Building the Famous Bridge
The Hertford Bridge connects the Old and New parts of Hertford College. The Old part is to the south, and the New part is to the north. A famous architect named Sir Thomas Jackson designed most of its current look.
The bridge was finished in 1914. Another college nearby, New College, actually didn't want it built. But it was built anyway!
What's Inside the Bridge?
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The building on the south side of the bridge holds the college's main offices. The building on the north side is mostly where students live.
Students who attend Hertford College can use the bridge whenever they want. You can often see them walking across it. The bridge is also a "Grade II listed" building. This means it's an important historical building that is protected.
