Karnin Lift Bridge

Karnin Lift Bridge is a technical railway monument in Usedom and Bugewitz, Germany, that once crossed the Peenestrom waterway. The central section with its lifting mechanism rises 35 meters above the water, while the approach spans are gone and only the middle portion of 52 meters remains today.

The structure was completed in 1933 to replace an older swing bridge and carried railway traffic between the island and the mainland. During the final war days of 1945 the side approaches were destroyed, leaving only the central lifting section standing.

The structure takes its name from the nearby village and reminds locals and visitors of a time when trains still crossed here. Today the preserved central section stands free over the water as part of the region's protected heritage.

The central section is visible from Karnin village and can also be viewed from the water during trips on the Peenestrom. Travelers on foot or by bicycle will find several spots along the shore offering a good view of the structure.

The lifting mechanism could raise the rails within three minutes, allowing ships to pass through. Today the freestanding central section serves as a landmark for boaters traveling on the Peenestrom.

Location: Usedom

Location: Bugewitz

Inception: 1933

Elevation above the sea: 35 m

Height: 35 m

Length: 52 m

Longest Span: 47 m

Part of: Bridge of Karnin, Ducherow–Heringsdorf railway line

GPS coordinates: 53.84351,13.85556

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:27