Alte Thurbrücke, Medieval stone bridge in Bischofszell, Switzerland
The Alte Thurbrücke is a stone arch bridge spanning the Thur River in Bischofszell, built in 1487 with eight arches constructed from sandstone and tuff stone blocks. The structure stretches about 116 meters and curves slightly, following the natural rock formations that serve as the foundation for its supporting pillars.
Built in 1487, this bridge replaced an earlier wooden crossing that had stood upstream since at least 1325. The shift to stone construction represented a major upgrade in the permanence and reliability of river crossings in the region.
Local tradition credits a noblewoman with funding the bridge after losing her sons to the river, requesting prayers rather than tolls from travelers. This story remains woven into how residents understand and speak about this crossing today.
The bridge is located right in the village center and is easily accessible on foot from nearby streets. Extensive restoration work completed between 1999 and 2006 strengthened the structure, making it safe and stable for pedestrian crossing today.
Rather than crossing the river in a straight line, the bridge curves to follow the natural rock formations that support its pillars in the riverbed. This adaptation to the landscape shows how medieval builders worked with what nature offered rather than against it.
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