Weidendammer Bridge, Steel arch road bridge in Berlin-Mitte, Germany
Weidendammer Bridge is a steel arch structure crossing the Spree River in Berlin-Mitte, featuring wrought iron railings and decorative eagles on each side. The span extends approximately 73 meters across the water and accommodates motor vehicles, trams, bicycles, and pedestrians along Friedrichstrasse.
Built between 1895 and 1896 by engineer Otto Stahn, it replaced a cast iron predecessor from 1824, which itself had succeeded an earlier wooden drawbridge from 1685. The structure survived the 1945 Battle of Berlin and remained one of few passable river crossings during those final months of conflict.
The railings showcase intricate metalwork patterns typical of late 19th-century German craftsmanship, with tall lamp posts that reflect the aesthetics of that era. Walking across, visitors can appreciate how carefully these decorative elements were integrated into a functional structure.
The crossing accommodates motor traffic, trams, bicycles, and pedestrians and is located directly along Friedrichstrasse in central Berlin. Access is straightforward from nearby transit stations, and the bridge offers the most direct route across the Spree in this area.
A Tiger tank attempted to use the crossing as an escape route during the final months of 1945, underscoring how critical this passage was for movement across the river. Few people realize this structure played such a tactical role in the city's defense.
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