One of the most recognizable and most visible structures in St Augustine Florida is the Bridge of Lions. The Bridge of Lions spans across the Matanzas Bay and connects to Anastasia Island. Constructed between 1925-1927 the Bridge of Lions has long been a famous symbol of the Old City and is visible from almost every bayfront view of the city. In fact, many of our Bayfront Inns have a perfect view of the Bridge, adding to their romantic appeal.
The Bridge of Lions is a double leaf, drawback bascule bridge and a very unique structure with its enormous marble lions that guard the bridge at its entrance point. The two marble lion statues were given as a gift to the city by Dr. Andrew Anderson, a close friend of Henry Flagler. Anderson, an avid lover of the arts, designed the lions to resemble stone lions that are in the Loggia dei Lanzi in Florence Italy and commissioned Italian sculptor Romanelli of Florence Italy to create the lions for the Bridge of Lions.
In the late 1990s, city and government officials realized that the bridge's former engineering was now rendered faulty and the bridge was in a bad state of disrepair. A restoration plan was approved and a new, temporary bridge was constructed in order to keep traffic moving across the bay while the Bridge was repaired and restored. Currently, the Bridge of Lions is still being repaired and the entire project is slated to be completed by 2010; thus, ensuring that the St Augustine Bridge of Lions will remain a historical symbol of the Old City.
Are you looking for lodging here? Instead of staying in one of the common, overcrowded Hotels, enjoy unique accommodations right in the historic district and stay in a historic St Augustine Bed and Breakfast! Each St. Augustine B&B in our association comes well recommended, and many of the Bed and Breakfasts that we work with have been featured in a variety of regional travel publications. Enjoy accommodations just minutes from popular Attractions like Anastasia State Park, St Augustine Beach, the World of Golf, and Marineland Florida.
In addition to being among some of the best Places to Stay in St Augustine Florida, each Bed and Breakfast features premier Wedding services. Whether you desire to accommodate your wedding party, family, or are looking for a place to hold an Intimate Wedding, the historic St Augustine FL Bed and Breakfasts might be the best place to look for your special day! Learn more in our Weddings section.
