De Oversteek, Steel arch bridge in Nijmegen, Netherlands
De Oversteek is a steel arch bridge across the Waal River in Nijmegen, with a central arch spanning about 285 meters—one of Europe's largest single-span arches. The structure extends 1,195 meters overall, connecting both banks with two lanes per direction, an emergency lane, and a wide path for pedestrians and cyclists.
The bridge was built to honor events from September 1944, when soldiers crossed a river under heavy fire and secured a strategic location. This sacrifice continues to shape the region's memory and the significance of this crossing today.
The name refers to crossing the river, reflecting its importance as a passage for the city. Every evening, a silent remembrance unfolds here, keeping the connection between past events and the daily life of residents alive.
The bridge is open and easily accessible for visitors, with clearly separated areas for cars, bicycles, and pedestrians. The best time for a walk is during daylight, when the river and city views are clear.
During construction, an unusual delivery method was used, with materials transported by ships instead of trucks. This choice significantly reduced carbon emissions and set a new standard for environmentally conscious large projects.
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