Reminders of the past rest across most landscapes and often provide a fantastic insight into the way people once lived. Bridges are a perfect example of this. Used to link communities, cross impediments, and make travel easier, they can tell us so much about the origins of civilization.

While many bridges have crumbled and fallen into the expanse they once traversed, there are plenty that still welcome travelers to this day. Here are 5 of the oldest bridges still standing that are well worth putting to use.

1. Arkadiko Bridge

The Arkadiko Bridge, also known as the Kazarma Bridge, is believed to be the oldest existing bridge in the world. It is an arch bridge and one of the oldest of this type still used by the local population. In Mycenaean (last phase of the Greek Bronze Age from 1600 – 1100 BCE) times, the Arkadiko Bridge served as a highway between the cities of Tiryns and Epidauros. The Arkadiko Bridge was built sometime around 1300 – 1190 BCE and was part of a larger highway in the area. There are three other corbel arch bridges near Arkadiko, all similar in design and age.

2. Caravan Bridge

A simple yet sturdy bridge in one of Turkey’s most populous cities, the Caravan Bridge in Izmir (known in ancient times as Smyrna) dates back some 3,000 years. Originally built in 850 BC for camel trains entering the town, this tough stone slab arch still carries vehicles and pedestrians daily, making it one of the oldest bridges still in use. Many claim it is the oldest bridge in the world (the Guinness World Records included).

3. Pont du Gard

It is not difficult to see why Pont du Gard is one of the world’s most-visited bridges. Created 2000 years ago to span the Gardon River, it is a truly unique sight to behold. Constructed with stones each weighing up to six tons and assembled in a breathtaking three-tiered fashion, it is a remarkable 902-foot-long architectural marvel. It is impossible to experience this prodigious bridge without feeling awestruck by its ambitious and lasting design.

4. Tarr Steps

The Tarr Steps are an ancient clapper bridge (bridge form mostly found in the moors of Devon, England) located across the River Barle in Exmoor National Park in Somerset, England. No one knows for sure how old the bridge is but the Tarr Steps could date back to at least 1000 BCE. The Tarr Steps consist of 17 giant slabs (total of 180 feet long) and are considered the best example of a clapper bridge. According to local legend, the Tarr Steps were built by the Devil so he could sunbathe on the stones. The bridge has been damaged in recent years by flood waters but has been rebuilt.

5. Pons Fabricius

Named after its creator, Lucius Fabricius, this 200-foot (61m) long bridge connects the city of Rome's mainland to Tiber Island. Dating back to 62 BC, it’s the oldest bridge that’s still in use in the city. Although the four-headed monument was added during a 16th-century restoration, this pedestrian walkway has (amazingly) remained largely unchanged since it was built. The island itself is seen as an important place of healing, and there's still a hospital there today.