A masonry arch bridge, typically designated as a masonry bridge, stone bridge, or vaulted bridge, represents a specific construction technique. However, it is primarily regarded as a prominent category of bridges, employed from antiquity until the early 20th century.
Masonry bridges represent a distinct category of arch bridges, distinguished by their tendency to experience supporting reactions on the abutments that tend to push them apart. The materials used for the arches are cut stones, exhibiting high compression resistance but limited flexion flexibility. In contrast, materials employed in other arch bridge types, including wood, concrete, reinforced concrete, prestressed concrete, metal, and composites, demonstrate some elasticity and can accommodate flexion, enabling the construction of bridges with greater spans.
