Jungfernbrücke, Stone footbridge in Bodetal Valley, Germany
The Jungfernbrücke is a stone footbridge crossing the Bode River in the Bodetal Valley and connects the rocky banks at a particularly narrow section. The crossing descends and ascends through steps that navigate the steep terrain and the river gorge below.
A wooden bridge first crossed this spot in 1819, but severe flooding destroyed it when water levels rose dramatically above normal. The current stone structure replaced it in 1927 to provide a more lasting solution for river crossing.
The name Jungfernbrücke comes from regional legends about young women associated with this crossing. These stories remain alive in local storytelling and shape how people connect with the place today.
Crossing involves climbing about 18 steps to reach the opposite bank safely. The bridge serves as a starting or connecting point for several hiking trails in the area and is easily accessible on foot.
A bell at the nearby Gasthaus Königsruhe rings each time someone crosses the bridge, according to local tradition. This sound has become part of the experience people associate with making the crossing.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
