Alte Brücke

Introduction

The Old Bridge is an ancient and elegant stone bridge across the Neckar in Heidelberg. This quaint, refined 18th-century stone arch bridge links the old town with the opposite bank, and with its graceful form, old bridge gate and superb views of the castle and old town, it is one of Heidelberg's most classic and romantic landmarks. The Old Bridge (formally the Karl Theodor Bridge) was built in the late 18th century on the order of Elector Palatine Karl Theodor—an elegant, sturdy multi-arch stone bridge spanning the winding Neckar, quaint and beautiful. On the old-town side stands an ancient, conspicuous medieval bridge gate (two round towers), once the old town's gate and fortification—full of antique charm, it is the bridge's symbol. On the bridge stand several statues, including one of Elector Karl Theodor and a famous bronze "Bridge Monkey"—legend has it that touching the monkey brings luck, wealth or a return to Heidelberg, so visitors have polished it shiny, great fun. Standing on or looking from the bridge, Heidelberg's most classic, enchanting picture appears: the winding Neckar, the green hills opposite, the castle ruins atop the hill, and the red-roofed old town weave together an unparalleled, romantic German old-town scene, especially intoxicating at dusk or sunset, and a superb spot to photograph Heidelberg. Crossing Heidelberg's quaint, romantic Old Bridge and taking in the classic castle-and-old-town panorama is a pleasant, enchanting classic experience.

✨ Highlights

🛈 Practical Info