Molenbrug, Cable-stayed bridge in Kampen, Netherlands
Molenbrug is a cable-stayed bridge stretching 627 meters across the IJssel River with two towers decorated in gold leaf and a central opening of about 193 meters. The structure carries a 19-meter-wide deck with vehicle lanes and pedestrian paths.
A wooden bridge has stood here since 1448 and underwent several rebuildings, including a floating ship bridge in 1589. The current steel structure was completed in 1983.
The bridge connects Kampen to the surrounding region and serves as a daily crossing for residents linking the city to areas beyond. It stands where people have crossed the river for centuries, making it woven into how locals move through their landscape.
The crossing is open to cars, cyclists, and pedestrians, connecting the city center with communities south of the river. When needed, the central section can be raised to allow ships to pass through.
The name comes from an old mill, D'Olde Zwarver, that once stood nearby, though the mill no longer exists. Locals still call it 'De nieuwe brug' meaning 'The new bridge', a name that has stuck since it opened decades ago.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
