What landmarks do you consider to be iconic state symbols and views? Perhaps the Boston Common, the nation’s oldest public park. Or maybe Concord’s North Bridge, the site where the Revolutionary War got its start. These places are certainly iconic, not only for their beauty but also because they are rich with centuries of Massachusetts history. Boston’s Zakim Bridge is another local landmark that is just as recognizable but not nearly as old as these other Massachusetts views. 

While younger readers may not recall a time when the Zakim Bridge was not an integral part of Boston’s landscape, many of us remember when the bridge did not dot the city's skyline.  

The Zakim opened in 2003 and was built to replace the deteriorating 1950s Charlestown High Bridge. The 10-lane Zakim build was part of the infamous Big Dig project. The Zakim now sits proudly above the Charles River and connects the town of Charlestown to the city of Boston. This beautiful gateway into our state's capital is considered to be one of the widest cable-stayed bridges in the world.

While most people refer to the bridge simply as “the Zakim,” the landmark’s full name is “The Leonard P. Zakim Bunker Hill Memorial Bridge.”  It was named in honor of both Leonard P. Zakim, a Civil Rights activist,  as well as those who fought in the Battle of Bunker Hill. If you look closely, you will notice that the bridge’s inverted Y-shaped towers replicate the nearby Bunker Hill Monument. 

The Zakim was dedicated in October 2002. Much excitement and fanfare went into the celebration. Leonard Zakim's family was in attendance, along with members of the government, and even Bruce Springsteen, who performed his hit “Thunder Road.”  I also attended some of the dedication events. I remember being so excited to witness history in action. Being able to walk across the bridge is a moment I will never forget.

And the bridge was not only open to human visitors that month. It also witnessed some much larger footsteps. As it turned out, the Ringling Brothers аnd Barnum & Bailey Circus was taking place in Boston at the same time as the bridge was being dedicated. On Oct. 14, 2002, 14 of the circus elephants walked across the Zakim and proved that it could safely hold up to 112,000 pounds. 

While the bridge is a beautiful sight to see at any time of day, it is particularly magical at night when lit up with LED lights. The colors of the lights are programmed to mark notable events and local sports games.

The Zakim may only be a few decades old but its image has become synonymous with Boston culture. It can be seen on city postcards, souvenirs, and posters. It has quickly become one of the city's and state's most recognizable sights.

What other images pop into your mind when you think of Massachusetts? Please tell us about your favorites.