Raiffeisenbrücke, Cable-stayed road bridge in Weißenthurm and Neuwied, Germany
The Raiffeisenbrücke is a cable-stayed bridge crossing the Rhine between Weißenthurm and Neuwied with distinctive tall pylons supporting the main span. The structure features six traffic lanes and separate pedestrian and bicycle paths on both sides.
An earlier bridge opened at this location in 1935 but was destroyed during World War II. The current bridge was completed in 1978, replacing makeshift solutions that served the area after the war.
The bridge honors Friedrich Wilhelm Raiffeisen, a former mayor whose work in the region continues to shape local identity. Visitors can trace this connection through place names and institutions along the Rhine valley.
This heavily used crossing is busy during peak hours, so walking or cycling visits are best planned outside rush times. The dedicated paths on both sides allow safe pedestrian and bicycle access independent from vehicle traffic.
When completed, the entire bridge was moved 16 meters downstream using a sliding technique, an engineering feat many visitors today are unaware of. This method allowed precise positioning and showcased innovative solutions typical of late 1970s construction.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
