Empress Elisabeth Bridge, Chain bridge across Elbe River in Podmokly, Czech Republic.
Empress Elisabeth Bridge was a chain bridge spanning the Elbe River in Podmokly, stretching roughly 235 meters long and 8.5 meters wide. It connected the eastern bank of the Elbe at Tetschen with Bodenbach, serving as a major river crossing point.
Construction took place between 1853 and 1855 under the firm Schertz of Pirna, working from modified designs by engineer Werner based on Josef Schnirch's original plans. This work was part of the expanding infrastructure that supported industrial growth in northern Bohemia during the 19th century.
The bridge carried the name of Empress Elisabeth of Austria, marking the strong ties between the Austrian Empire and the northern Bohemian lands. This naming reflected the political and economic relationships that shaped the region during that era.
The site today is more of a historical landmark than an active crossing, since the structure no longer exists. Visitors can best explore the location by walking along the Elbe riverbank, where local information boards and remnants help tell the story of this former bridge.
A fire in July 1915 severely damaged the timber decking and forced closure for several months. By 1933, it was ultimately replaced by Tyrš Bridge, which took over its role as the river crossing.
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