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Connecting the banks of the Amstel river at Kerkstraat, between Keizersgracht and Prinsengracht is the Magere Brug.
A well known story, often related to tourists visiting Amsterdam, is that of two wealthy sisters living on opposite sides of the Amstel River. Desiring to find a way to visiting each other easily, the sisters decided to have a bridge built to assist them on their endeavor. Lacking the funds to build a bridge of adequate width, they settled for one so narrow that two pedestrians were unable to pass each other during their crossing.
The Skinny Bridge.
Built in 1934 by Piet Kramer and renovated in 1969, the current structure was preceded by bridges on the site, one of which was first built in 1691. This bridge, the Kerkstraatbrug, had thirteen arches and was extremely narrow. Nicknamed the magere brug or “skinny bridge” this bridge remained in use until 1871 when it was demolished and replaced by a nine arched wooden bridge. After fifty years of use, plans were made to replace the link with a steel and stone structure, however, it was the city’s decision to remain with a bridge resembling the previous ones, only slightly larger.
Though the bridge, which has accommodated only pedestrians and cyclists since 2003, is high enough for the many low-profiled sightseeing boats to pass without opening, the bridge is opened throughout the day for other river traffic. In 1994, the bridge’s opening was automated, however, prior to that time, a bridge keeper was responsible for opening the bridge several times a day by hand.
An acclaimed landmark, located opposite the Royal Carré Theatre, thousands of visitors, including lovers, photographers and film buffs (the bridge was highlighted in a number of films, such as James Bond, Diamonds Are Forever), visit the bridge each year, especially at night, when it’s beauty is unsurpassed, lit by 1200 lights.
While visiting the canal-ringed city, head on over to the Amstel River and the Magere Brug for a photo op. Although not one of a kind, make it your first stop before finding the others located throughout the city, at the Staalstraat/Grimburgwal, Nieuve Herengracht, Rapenburg, Prinseneiland and Bickerseiland. Truly awe-inspiring!
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Magere Brug
- Address: Kerkstraat, 1017 AK Amsterdam