Östra bron, Stone arch bridge in Karlstad, Sweden
Östra bron is a stone arch bridge spanning the east channel of Klarälven River and joining the districts of Haga and Norrstrand. The structure features twelve consecutive natural stone arches that stretch across approximately 168 meters.
Construction began in 1761 and was completed in 1811 under master builder Anders Jacobsson. Stone was quarried locally from Lamberget and carefully worked for this major construction project.
The bridge has been a meeting point for locals since completion and takes its name from the eastern riverbank where it ends. It shapes the city's character today and is used daily by pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers.
The bridge sits about 600 meters northeast of central Karlstad and is easily reached on foot or by bicycle. It forms part of the Klarälvsbanan cycling route network, offering visitors a convenient path to explore the area.
With twelve consecutive arches, it remains Sweden's longest stone arch bridge and showcases early 19th-century engineering skill. This building method was groundbreaking for its time and made the bridge a remarkable example of Swedish craftsmanship.
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