Drawbridge

A drawbridge is a raisable bridge, normally made from wood, which can be either flat or hoisted to one side. It can be lowered to allow passage or raised to deny it.

The most common type of drawbridge consists of a wooden platform with one fixed side (normally with a hinge), and the other side attached to the wall it is raised against by rope or chains. Pulling on the chain raises the bridge.

In the middle ages drawbridges where often used to allow or deny access across a moat or ditch.

Now, with cars and trains in need of crossing small waterways without blocking boats from passing drawbridges have a more peaceful reason for their existence.

This particular bridge is for a two track railway in downtown Fort Lauderdale, Florida. [Image:http://floridaphotoalbum.com/photos/pr/draw_bridge_1.jpg]

See also bascule bridge.