Arch bridges are constructed with many materials and have numerous configurations but they all have primary elements in common. Each bridge has abutments, which are used to support the curjved arch structure under the bridge.

A viaduct is one of the most common type of arch bridge and one type which has been around for a very long time. Usually, a viaduct bridge is a long bridge made up of many arches. The lateral pressure created by each of the arch spans is transferred into the supporting abutments, which makes it necessary for both the arches and the abutments parts of the bridge to remain solid, intact and well founded.

There are arch bridges with decorative brick work, which bricks are an integral part of the design. Arch bridges are simple but are also very effective for carry everything from pedestrians to heavy rail.

An arch bridge works by conveying the downward pressure of gravity, rather than straight down, instead, in an inward direction towards the center of the structure, to a central stone which is called the keystone. This principle is called compression, and it enables the arch below to support the bridge surface, (called the deck) above it.

Too, there are many types of arch bridges, some of which are listed below.

Sherman Minton Bridge, Louisville, 1961

Bayonne Arch Bridge, steel through arch,

SR 440 (40.6421677, -74.1421640) Kill Van Kull

Bayonne Bridge, 1931, steel through arch

SR 440 (40.6421515, -74.1420600) Kill Van Kull

Hernando de Soto Bridge, Memphis