Between 1908 and 1910, an impressive steel suspension bridge was built to the designs of Mager, Weyrauch and Mayer. Originally known as the Kaiser Bridge and today as Grunwald Bridge, it remains one of Wroclaw’s principal landmarks. Two massive granite pylons support the structure, which has a span of 112 metres and suspension cables extending approximately 216 metres. Around 2,400 tonnes of granite were used for the monumental gateways, while the steel structure weighs approximately 2,300 tonnes. Emperor Wilhelm II officially opened the bridge on 10 October 1910.
The bridge is both an engineering achievement and an important example of monumental German architecture from the beginning of the twentieth century. Following wartime destruction, it was reconstructed between 1946 and 1947. It is now one of Wroclaw’s most recognisable symbols and a popular meeting point for residents and visitors.
Wroclaw is crossed by the Oder River and numerous tributaries and canals. Smaller rivers, including the Ślęza and Oława, together with canals and former river channels, create both natural and artificial islands. Even the former defensive moat remains filled with water.
Bridges and footbridges are therefore essential elements of the cityscape. Wroclaw has 127 bridges, placing it among Europe’s leading bridge cities after Venice, Amsterdam and St Petersburg. Grunwald Bridge remains the best known and most admired of them.
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