Construction on the Bridge of Strings at the entrance to Jerusalem is almost complete and will be dedicated on June 26 in honor of Israel's 60th anniversary. Designed by famed Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, the construction of the bridge has not been without controversy. Outrageous traffic jams, increasing costs and even cracks (yes, cracks) in the bridge and other problems have made for a PR nightmare for the municipality. Many feel that the bridge is simply out of its element and question whether it even fits visually in the city. Others think that Jerusalem, a city not exactly known for anything progressive nor enough spending on welfare or cultural initiatives, is deserving of such a unique landmark. Design-wise, the goal of the bridge was to add a defining visual element to the "skyline" of the entrance of Jerusalem, which, up until now included dilapidated buildings and that's about it.

Besides being an architectural wonder, the bridge's purpose is to carry the Jerusalem light rail, which is currently more than a year behind even the most updated schedules.

Without thinking about all the problems that have plagued the construction, the Bridge of Strings (some say Chords) is a marvel, and it is impossible to stand under it and not be in awe.

 Photographs by Harry Rubenstein for Jerusalemite.