A few weeks ago I had the opportunity to visit San Francisco for a quick trip. When I was there I got to see many highlights of the city including the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. It’s absolutely stunning to actually view the bridge in person after seeing it all of these years in tv shows and in movies. I saw the bridge from Fort Point and from this angle you really get to marvel at all the architectural wonder that is the Golden Gate Bridge.

Golden Gate Bridge History

As one of the most recognizable bridges in the world and stretching 4,200 feet, the Golden Gate Bridge opened to the public 78 years ago on May 27, 1937.  At the time of its opening the bridge held the record of having the largest span in the world. During the opening celebration in 1937 more than 200,000 people crossed the bridge on foot marveling at its architecture. “There’s a Silver Moon on the Golden Gate,” was chosen as the official song commemorating the opening of the bridge.

Amazing Architecture

The bridge was built by architect Joseph B. Strauss from 1933-1937, who served as the chief engineer on the massive project, although Charles Alton Ellis was the one most responsible for the structural design of the bridge. That being said, the majority of the art-Deco styling, admired by millions, came from architect Irving Morrow. Morrow also was the one who ultimately decided that the bridge should be painted International Orange.