The Bridge of Sighs in Chester is a crossing that originally led from the Northgate jail, across the Chester Canal, to a chapel in the Bluecoat School. It was built to allow condemned prisoners to receive the last rites before their execution without risk of escape. [1] It is recorded in the National Heritage List for England as a designated Grade II listed building. [2]
The bridge was built probably in 1793. It originally had iron railings to prevent the prisoners from escaping. The railings were removed during World War II. [3] The architect was Joseph Turner. [4]
After the Northgate Prison closed, Chester City Corporation tried to have the bridge removed in 1821.[ citation needed ]