St.Elmo's Viaduct
The viaduct was destroyed on the night
of 25/26th July 1941 in an attack by Italian E-Boats. See also the 'Italian
Raid' page.
The foundation stone for the breakwater was laid 20th April 1903. This should
have been laid on the 18th but rough seas prevented the commander in chief of
the Mediterranean, Admiral Sir John Arbuthnot Fisher making this date.The date
on this stone bears the 18th. Blocks used in the construction were made at Mistra
Bay near St.Pauls.
One major setback occured on 22nd February 1904 when a gregale (seasonal storm)
destroyed the pier which had to be rebuilt.
The Ricasoli end was completed in June 1906 & the St.Elmo end in October
1908.
Construction of the viaduct using the floating crane.
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Taken pre WWII. Photo courtesy of Margaret Hodgson |
Taken probably 1945-47. Photo courtesy of Maureen Illes |
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Taken probably 1945-47. Photo courtesy of Maureen Illes |
Taken probably 1945-47. Photo courtesy of Maureen Illes |
|
One of the surviving central pillars taken 2008. |
One of the surviving bridge supports. |
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Taken in 2007. This was all that remained of the viaduct for many years. |
The new bridge I took in 2012 |
Their are some fantastic photos in the
book 'Richard Ellis - The Photography Collection' Vol II showing the construction
of this bridge.
This book is sadly out of print & at this time (2013) no plans to reprint
it.
