\paperw3360 \margr0\margl0\ATXph11340 \plain \fs20 \pard\tx3255\tx6525\tx9780\ATXts240\ATXbrdr0 \f1 \fs22 LondonÆs crowning achievement in the field of metropolitan engineering i
s Tower Bridge, the late-Victorian watergate to the world. Opened in 1894, this symbol of London features pinnacled towers and a linking catwalk which support the mechanism for raising the roadway when large ships have to pass through. When raised, the b
ridge is 40 metres high and 60 metres wide. In its heyday it was opened five times a day. Originally powered by steam, the lifting machinery for raising the roadway was only electrified in 1976.\par
There are nearly 300 steps leading to the top of the t
owers and the catwalk, which is now open to the public and affords a magnificent view along the river.\par
