Background

Old Main Bridge: Würzburg's Stone Chronicle

Würzburg's iconic Old Main Bridge: A historic stone bridge adorned with Baroque statues, offering stunning city views and Franconian wine, embodying the city's rich heritage.

4.7

The Old Main Bridge (Alte Mainbrücke) in Würzburg is more than just a river crossing; it's a vibrant symbol of the city's history and culture. Built between 1473 and 1543, replacing an earlier Romanesque structure, it connects the old town with the Marienberg Fortress. Adorned with twelve Baroque statues of saints and historical figures added in the 18th century, the bridge offers stunning panoramic views of the city skyline. Today, it's a pedestrianized hub where locals and tourists gather to enjoy Franconian wine, soak in the atmosphere, and admire the blend of medieval stonework and Baroque artistry. The bridge is a must-see landmark, embodying Würzburg's enduring spirit and architectural beauty, and is a testament to the city's ability to integrate faith and aesthetics.

A brief summary to Old Main Bridge

Local tips

  • Visit during sunset for breathtaking views of the Marienberg Fortress and the Würzburg skyline bathed in golden light.
  • Enjoy a glass of Franconian wine from one of the vendors on the bridge for a truly local experience.
  • Take a stroll across the bridge at night to see the statues beautifully illuminated.
  • Check the local events calendar for festivals and concerts that often take place on or near the bridge.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the Marienberg Fortress for panoramic views that include the bridge itself.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Würzburg Residence, walk southwest along Domstraße, passing the Würzburg Cathedral. Continue onto Kiliansplatz and then turn left onto Domerschulstraße. Turn right onto Karmelitenstraße, which leads directly to the Old Main Bridge. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes and offers views of the city's historic center.

  • Public Transport

    From Würzburg Hauptbahnhof (Central Station), take tram lines 1, 3, or 5 to the 'Dom' stop. From there, walk east along Domstraße for about 5 minutes to reach the Old Main Bridge. A single tram fare is approximately €3.10. Alternatively, a day ticket costs €5.20 and allows unlimited travel within Würzburg.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Würzburg Hauptbahnhof to the Old Main Bridge typically costs between €8 and €12, depending on traffic. The journey takes around 5-10 minutes. Ask the driver to drop you off near the bridge entrance on the city center side.

  • Driving

    Driving directly to the Old Main Bridge is not possible as it is a pedestrian zone. The closest parking garage is 'Tiefgarage Marktplatz' (underground parking garage). From there, it's a short walk to the bridge. Parking fees at Tiefgarage Marktplatz are approximately €2.50 per hour or €14 per day.

Unlock the Best of Old Main Bridge

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Old Main Bridge

Spanning the Main River in Würzburg, Germany, the Old Main Bridge, or Alte Mainbrücke, stands as a captivating testament to the city's rich history and architectural evolution. More than a mere crossing, it's a vibrant pedestrian promenade, a stage for cultural exchange, and a stone-carved chronicle of Würzburg's enduring spirit. Originally constructed between 1473 and 1543, the bridge replaced a Romanesque predecessor dating back to around 1133. Its construction was initiated by Bishop Johann II von Brunn. This makes it one of the oldest bridges in Germany. This strategic crossing has witnessed centuries of transformation, from its medieval origins to its current status as a beloved landmark. The bridge's architectural design is characterized by its robust stone arches and wide pedestrian walkway. These arches, weathered by time, offer a glimpse into the engineering techniques of the past. The pedestrian walkway provides panoramic views of the Main River and the surrounding cityscape, creating a breathtaking backdrop for historical reflection and urban exploration. The bridge connects Würzburg's old town with the Marienberg Fortress. One of the bridge's most distinctive features is the series of twelve Baroque statues that line its sides. Added in two phases starting around 1730, these figures represent various saints and historically significant individuals, including Saint Kilian (the patron saint of Würzburg), Saint John of Nepomuk, Mary and Saint Joseph, Charlemagne, and Pepin the Short. The statues, sculpted by Johann Sebastian Becker, Volkmar Becker and Claude Curé, serve as reminders of the city's religious heritage and artistic patronage. Although the original statues suffered damage over time, meticulous restoration efforts have ensured their continued presence, weaving a narrative that enhances the cultural tapestry of Würzburg's old town. The Old Main Bridge has played a vital role in Würzburg's history, serving as an important transport link and witnessing numerous historical events. During World War II, the bridge sustained heavy damage but was subsequently rebuilt and restored to its original splendor. Today, free from automobile traffic, the bridge is a haven for pedestrians and cyclists, offering a pleasant and safe environment to soak in the city's atmosphere. The bridge has twelve arches spanning approximately 185 meters. Drawing inspiration from bridges like Prague's Charles Bridge and Rome's Angel's Bridge, the Old Main Bridge embodies a blend of medieval stonework and Baroque artistry, solidifying its position as a central cultural and spiritual landmark. More than just a functional structure, the Old Main Bridge serves as a vibrant cultural hub, hosting various events throughout the year, including city festivals and open-air concerts. On Saint Kilian's Day (July 8), thousands gather on the bridge to commemorate the city's patron saint, adding further charm to its rich history. Walking across the Old Main Bridge is an immersive experience, offering stunning panoramic views of Würzburg's skyline, including landmarks like the Marienberg Fortress and Würzburg Cathedral. Adding to the ambiance, vendors often sell local Franconian wines on the bridge, providing a unique opportunity to savor the region's flavors while enjoying the breathtaking vistas. The Old Main Bridge stands as a symbol of Würzburg's ability to integrate faith and aesthetics, offering a unique connection to both the city's historical depth and its picturesque present. It's a place where the footsteps of medieval merchants blend with the contemporary stroll of tourists, creating a vibrant tapestry of past and present.

Popular Experiences near Old Main Bridge

Popular Hotels near Old Main Bridge

Select Currency