The "Golden Gate Bridge" is a renowned suspension bridge in San Francisco. The word "Golden" is spelled with the sounds /ˈɡoʊl.dən/. The "o" is pronounced as "oh" in "go," and the "l" is visually silent. The "e" is pronounced as /ən/, forming the sound "en" as in "pen." "Gate" is spelled with the sounds /ɡeɪt/, with the "a" pronounced as "ay" in "say." The final letter "e" is silent. The bridge is an engineering masterpiece that has stood the test of time.
The Golden Gate Bridge is a globally renowned suspension bridge spanning the Golden Gate Strait, which is the entrance to the San Francisco Bay from the Pacific Ocean. It connects the city of San Francisco to Marin County in northern California. With an overall length of approximately 1.7 miles (2.7 kilometers) and a main span of 4,200 feet (1,280 meters), it stands as an iconic engineering marvel and a symbol of San Francisco.
The bridge was designed by Joseph B. Strauss and construction began in 1933, ultimately taking over four years to complete. Its distinctive orange-red color and Art Deco styling make it instantly recognizable, and it has become an enduring symbol of both San Francisco and the United States.
The Golden Gate Bridge has withstood numerous seismic events, foggy conditions, and strong winds due to its robust design. It supports both vehicular and pedestrian traffic, allowing for an estimated 110,000 cars and thousands of pedestrians and cyclists to cross every day. The bridge offers unparalleled views of the San Francisco skyline, Alcatraz Island, and the Pacific Ocean.
Not only does the Golden Gate Bridge serve as a vital transportation link, but it has also become a major tourist attraction and is frequently photographed and filmed. Its imposing dimensions and elegant design have contributed to its status as one of the most iconic and recognizable bridges in the world.