In pictures: Millau bridge

1 of 7 France's Millau bridge over the River Tarn is taller than the country's Eiffel Tower.

2 of 7 President Jacques Chirac inaugurates the bridge, in the Massif Central mountains.

3 of 7 The bridge was built to clear summer traffic jams around the town.

4 of 7 Architect Norman Foster says it was designed to have the "delicacy of a butterfly".

5 of 7 Observers say the construction, which has seven pillars, is one of the most breathtaking bridges ever built.

6 of 7 The bridge stands more than 300m (984ft) high, with pylons bound to the bridge by cobwebs of steel.

7 of 7 Correspondents say the bridge is a source of pride for Millau, which believes many more tourists will come to admire it.