Oberbaum Bridge

Oberbaum Bridge is a road and rail crossing over the Spree in Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg, Germany, stretching 150 meters (492 feet) with a width of roughly 28 meters (92 feet) and a height of about 4.5 meters (15 feet). Two Gothic towers built from red brick stand at each end, framing the river while arches and crenellations lend a medieval appearance.

The crossing opened in 1896 to link eastern suburbs with central Berlin. During the Cold War it served as a checkpoint between East and West, then underwent repairs after reunification.

The name comes from a tree trunk that once blocked the river for customs collection. Locals from both districts gather here for walks or photos, treating the red towers as a shared landmark.

Pedestrians and cyclists use dedicated paths along the sides while cars run below and metro trains pass above. A visit at sunset offers good views of the illuminated towers.

A neon installation by artist Thorsten Goldberg called Stone-Paper-Scissors changes its pattern with wind direction. Each year a playful water fight between the two districts takes place on the crossing.

Location: Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg

Inception: November 9, 1994

Architects: Santiago Calatrava, Otto Stahn

Height: 4.5 m

Length: 150 m

Longest Span: 22 m

Width: 27.9 m

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

Made from material: stone

Part of: Inner Ring Road

GPS coordinates: 52.50194,13.44556

Latest update: December 13, 2025 19:52