The Golden Gate Bridge just turned 80 years old - take a look at its historic build

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The Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco during its construction.

The Golden Gate Bridge celebrates the 80th anniversary of its opening on Saturday, May 27.

"A necklace of surpassing beauty was placed about the lovely throat of San Francisco yesterday," wrote a San Francisco Chronicle reporter a day after the opening ceremonies in 1937.

The Golden Gate is neither the longest nor the tallest bridge in the US - but its marriage of engineering and art makes it one of the most stunning sites in the world.

These vintage photos show how the crown jewel of San Francisco's skyline came together.