Theodor-Heuss-Brücke

The Theodor-Heuss-Brücke is a concrete structure spanning the Neckar River and linking the Old City with the Neuenheim district. The bridge stretches roughly 200 meters across the water and carries car traffic, cyclists, and pedestrians between these neighborhoods.

The bridge was built in 1877, replacing older wooden structures that traced back to Roman times. It was reconstructed after suffering damage in World War II and has continued to serve as a key transport link since then.

The bronze monkey statue on the bridge has become woven into local customs, with visitors traditionally touching it for luck. This small figure serves as a gathering point and popular photo spot for people crossing between the city districts.

The bridge accommodates all forms of traffic with dedicated paths for pedestrians and cyclists, making crossing safe and easy. A stop in the middle of the crossing rewards visitors with views of the river and the old city beyond.

Few visitors know the bridge bears the name of a 20th-century German politician, a choice tied to post-war political developments. This naming reflects how public infrastructure in the city became a marker of historical recovery and renewal.