Vredesbrug, Vertical-lift bridge in Willebroek, Belgium.

Vredesbrug is a vertical-lift bridge in Willebroek that allows ships to pass underneath when its central span is raised. The structure connects both sides of the town and spans the canal with its distinctive steel framework.

The bridge was built in 1952 during the post-war reconstruction period when the region needed to expand its transportation infrastructure. It was a response to growing traffic demands for both road and maritime transport.

The bridge represents Belgian engineering expertise and holds protected monument status due to its technical and architectural value. It demonstrates how the region modernized its infrastructure after the war.

The bridge is best viewed from the pedestrian walkways that provide access from both sides and offer clear views of the mechanism. The best time to visit is during good weather when the steel structure is clearly visible in sunlight.

Because the deck sits so low over the water, the bridge must open for every vessel, several times a day. Before the N16 ring road opened in 1985-1986, all traffic between Mechelen and Dendermonde or Sint-Niklaas crossed here, so the frequent lifts earned it the local nickname "Brug der zuchten" (Bridge of Sighs), after the one in Venice.