Holzbrücke Rapperswil-Hurden, Wooden footbridge between Rapperswil and Hurden, Switzerland
The Holzbrücke Rapperswil-Hurden is a wooden footbridge that crosses Lake Zurich at its narrowest point, connecting the cantons of St. Gallen and Schwyz. The structure is built from oak planks and steel components supported by a series of supporting piles that extend across the water.
The site has evidence of water crossings from ancient times, with archaeological findings pointing to wooden structures built by early communities. The modern bridge has been rebuilt and renewed over the centuries to maintain its structure and purpose.
The bridge has long served as a key crossing point for pilgrims following the Way of Saint James toward Spain. Travelers walking this route experience it as part of a centuries-old spiritual path that still draws people from across the continent.
The bridge is accessible within a short walk from Rapperswil railway station, making it easy to reach. After crossing, visitors reach a protected nature area where they can observe waterfowl and other wildlife in their natural setting.
The bridge rests on 233 wooden supporting piles and contains about 415 cubic meters of solid oak wood. This makes it a remarkable construction that demonstrates how traditional timber techniques can create structures built to last.
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