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With a main span of 1,280 meters ( 4,199 ft ), when completed in 1937 after four years of construction , it was the world ’ s longest suspension bridge as well as its tallest at 227.4 m ( 746 ft ), defying doubters who believed the feat of spanning the Golden Gate was impossible . The project cost more than $ 35m , yet was completed ahead of schedule and $ 1.3m under budget . McClintic-Marshall Construction Co . served as lead contractor .

The orange colour selected by architect Irving Morrow was chosen to complement the natural surroundings and enhance the bridge ’ s visibility in fog .

The two Art Deco towers stand almost 250m ( 820ft ) tall , more than 20 meters of which are below the sea level .

It has achieved recognition from the American Society of Civil Engineers as one of the Wonders of the Modern World , and is one of the city ’ s most famous landmarks .

Bridge cable

© 2007- David Ball

Bridge dimensions

56 August 2014