Old Main Bridge

The Old Main Bridge (Alte Mainbrücke) in Würzburg is the city's oldest crossing over the Main River and one of the most photographed spots in Franconia. Twelve Baroque statues of saints line the stone arches, with the old town and cathedral on one bank and Marienberg Fortress rising above the vineyards on the other. In the evening, locals and visitors gather here for a "Brückenschoppen," a glass of Franconian wine enjoyed on the bridge.

History of the bridge

A Romanesque stone bridge stood here as early as 1120. Construction of the present bridge began in 1476; the piers were finished by 1488, but the last arches were not completed until 1703. Until 1886, it was the only bridge across the river in Würzburg.

From 1728–29, twelve larger-than-life statues of saints were placed on the piers, including Kilian, Colman, and Totnan, the Irish missionaries of Franconia, as well as Charlemagne. The weathered originals have since been replaced by copies, and the row of figures often draws comparisons with Prague's Charles Bridge. German troops blew up two arches on April 2, 1945, and the bridge was rebuilt in 1950. It has been closed to cars since 1990.

Things to do on the bridge

• Take in the views: Marienberg Fortress and its vineyards to the west, the spires of the cathedral and Marienkapelle to the east.
• Look at the saints: each Baroque statue on the piers has its own story.
• Try a Brückenschoppen: wine bars at the bridgehead sell Franconian wine by the glass, usually with a glass deposit, so you can sip it while leaning on the parapet.
• Join a tour: Würzburg's tourist office runs a "Brückenschoppen" walking tour from the Falkenhaus on the market square; check its website for dates.

The bridge is 185 meters (607 feet) long, free, and open around the clock. Sunset and warm weekend evenings are the busiest and most atmospheric times, while early mornings are quiet and ideal for photos.

How to get to the Old Main Bridge

Würzburg is in northern Bavaria, about an hour by ICE train from Frankfurt and Nuremberg, and roughly two hours from Munich. From Würzburg Hauptbahnhof, walk about 20 minutes through the old town via the cathedral and Domstrasse. Drivers should use downtown parking garages, as the old town is largely pedestrianized. Prices are in euros (EUR).

Is it worth visiting?

Definitely. The bridge links Würzburg's top sights, costs nothing, and offers the classic view of the fortress above the river. Plan at least 15 minutes, or an hour if you stop for wine, and continue on foot up to the fortress.

Nearby

• Würzburg Cathedral: a few minutes up Domstrasse.
• Marienberg Fortress: on the hill across the river.
• Würzburg Residence: the UNESCO-listed palace, about 15 minutes on foot.