Marienbrücke, Observation bridge near Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany
Marienbrücke is a metal footbridge crossing the Pollat Gorge at a height of about 90 meters above a waterfall in the foothills of Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria. The structure provides visitors with elevated views of the gorge, the cascading water below, and the surrounding Alpine terrain.
King Ludwig II replaced the wooden original structure with an iron bridge in 1866, dedicating it to Queen Marie of Bavaria. This new crossing point became a significant destination for travelers exploring the Neuschwanstein estate.
This location has served for generations as the favored spot where visitors photograph the castle framed by the mountainscape. The footbridge remains the primary vantage point through which travelers experience and capture their impression of the landmark.
The route to the bridge involves a steep 40-minute hike from parking lot P4, though shuttle buses serve the castle and can reduce walking time from certain starting points. Sturdy footwear and moderate fitness help navigate the uneven terrain and elevation gains.
The bridge employed innovative cantilever techniques during construction, avoiding the need for temporary scaffolding across the gorge. This engineering approach allowed workers to build the structure while keeping the landscape below largely untouched.
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