Magere Brug, White wooden bascule bridge over Amstel River in Amsterdam, Netherlands
Magere Brug is a white wooden bascule bridge over the Amstel in Amsterdam, made from a central section that lifts to let larger boats pass through. The construction rests on several wooden piers and shows a symmetrical form with counterweights at both ends of the moving part.
The current bridge dates from 1934 and replaced a wooden bridge that already stood at the same spot in 1691. Until 1994 the opening and closing happened manually by a bridge keeper, then the mechanism became automated.
Its name means skinny bridge and refers to earlier versions that were so narrow two people could barely pass each other. Today it carries pedestrians and cyclists between both banks of the Amstel and belongs to the most recognized crossings in the city.
You can cross the bridge on foot or by bicycle, while cars are not allowed. The lifting mechanism is activated several times daily for boats when needed, which may lead to short waiting times.
After sunset, 1,200 light bulbs illuminate the entire structure and create glowing reflections in the water of the river below. This lighting makes the bridge one of the most photographed spots in Amsterdam at night.
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