Some call it the Golden Triangle. Some call it the city of Three Rivers. Some call it “The Burg”. That city is Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. As the keystone state’s second largest city, Pittsburgh lies between the Allegheny and Monogoheala rivers; it is here where the two rivers converge to form the Ohio River. This city is synonomous with the American steel industry, as it was here where the mighty industry first started nearly a century and a half ago. In fact, it was the steel industry that helped to build this small metropolis. Nowadays, the steel mills have dwindled as their presence has decreased in the last few decades, thanks in part to competing industries, environmental concerns, the economy, and outsourcing.
In recent years, Pittsburgh has become one of America’s most livable cities. One reason is environmental reasons. Since most of the steel mills have disappeared, newer industries like banking, pharmaceuticals, and construction have made their headquarters in the city. And without the numerous old smoke stacks and runoffs, Pittsburgh has been able to capitalize on a lot of the natural beauty surrounding the city. What adds to the ambiance of Pittsburgh is the numerous bridges. With more than 70 bridges spanning the three rivers, and many hills and ravines, think of it as an American version of Budapest or Venice. In fact, Pittsburgh holds the world record for being the city with the most bridges!
If you’re a sports fan, you are definitely in the right place! The Pittsburgh Steelers have won more Superbowl titles than any other NFL team in history, the Pittsburgh Penguins have been home to many great NHL players and Stanley Cup wins, and the Pittsburgh Pirates have been one of the oldest baseball franchises in history. If you see black, gold, and white in the stands, odds are, you’re in Pittsburgh!
So take a walk along side the three rivers, catch a Steelers game, and don’t forget to pay a visit to Mr. Rogers Neighborhood at WQED. Except Pittsburgh is no land of make believe; it is as real as it gets!
