This paper describes the results of an experimental study of the behavior of the Friction Pendulum System (FPS) in bridge seismic isolation. Earthquake simulator tests have been performed on a model bridge structure both isolated with FPS bearing and non-isolated. The experimental results demonstrate a marked increase of the capacity of the isolated bridge to withstand earthquake forces under all conditions. Analytical techniques are used to predict the response of the system and the obtained results are in very good agreement with the experimental results.