Khaju Bridge, Isfahan c1650Bridges can be tools, the means of crossing water, and objects – impressive feats of structure to be admired at a distance. They can also be places, destinations in their own right, where the experience of being there is as important as the function of getting across. Which, in the end, is the most satisfying – once you have gawped at an amazing suspension bridge, and exploited its usefulness, it doesn’t offer much more. The purposes of the Khaju Bridge included public meetings, a teahouse and enjoying the view, while also functioning as a sluice. Like old London Bridge, it takes the city across water and with more handsome, less ramshackle architecture.

Photograph: Robert Preston Photography / Ala/Alamy