The first pedestrian bridge across the river Liffey linking the north and south sides of Dublin was built in 1816 to replace the deteriorating fleet of ferries which had previously brought people across the river. Until 1919 there was a toll of half a penny to cross the bridge, hence it's name. The distictive 43 meter-spanning, beautiful elliptical iron arch has become an iconic image for Dublin and is a unique piece of old Dublin town still in use today. You can hear a lot more about the Ha' Penny bridge from your local guide on the freetour.com recommended Free Tour of Dublin.