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Dzelzceļa tilts: Riga's Enduring Railway Bridge

Riga's Dzelzceļa tilts: A historic railway bridge offering stunning views and a vital transport link across the Daugava River.

The Dzelzceļa tilts (Railway Bridge) is a vital crossing over the Daugava River in Riga, Latvia, connecting the city's center with other districts. Originally built in the early 20th century, it has been rebuilt several times due to war damage, standing today as a testament to Riga's resilience and industrial heritage.

A brief summary to Dzelzceļa tilts

  • Riga, LV

Local tips

  • Visit the bridge during sunset for picturesque views as the sky's colors reflect on the Daugava River.
  • Take a walk along the river promenade near the bridge for a leisurely experience and city skyline views.
  • Explore nearby attractions such as Riga's Old Town, easily accessible from the bridge.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Riga's Old Town (Vecrīga), head towards the Daugava River. Walk along the riverfront, turning left to follow the bank. The Dzelzceļa tilts will become visible ahead. The walk is straightforward, with the bridge serving as a prominent landmark.

  • Public Transport

    Find the nearest tram stop in the city center, such as 'Brīvības iela' or 'Rīgas Centrāltirgus'. Take tram number 7 or 10 towards 'Mangaļi'. Get off at the 'Dzelzceļa stacija' (Railway Station) stop. From there, walk towards the Daugava River; the Dzelzceļa tilts will be visible as you approach the river. A 90-minute ticket costs €1.50.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Riga. A short taxi ride from the city center to the Dzelzceļa tilts typically costs between €6 and €10, depending on the company and traffic. Taxi fares are calculated based on the time and distance traveled. The base fare is around €2.50, with a per kilometer price of approximately €0.70. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting the journey.

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Discover more about Dzelzceļa tilts

Dzelzceļa tilts, or the Railway Bridge, is more than just a functional structure; it's a landmark that embodies Riga's history and spirit. Spanning the Daugava River, it serves as the only railway bridge in the city, linking the central districts with the Zaķusala island and other areas beyond. The bridge's story began in the early 1900s, with construction taking place between 1909 and 1914. It opened on April 8, 1914, built alongside the old railway bridge. The bridge was designed with 10 supports, eight of which are in the water. In 1917, during World War I, retreating Russian troops destroyed sections of the bridge, which were later repaired by German forces. However, in 1944, as the Germans retreated, they destroyed the entire structure. Restoration began in 1944, with a temporary wooden bridge erected. The current bridge was fully rebuilt in 1955. In 2007, the bridge was illuminated with a lighting system that has both everyday and festive modes, enhancing its visual appeal at night. The bridge's official name, Dzelzceļa tilts, was confirmed on August 26, 2014. Today, it not only facilitates railway transport but also offers scenic views of the city and river, making it a point of interest for tourists exploring Riga. As part of the Rail Baltica project, the bridge is slated for duplication to accommodate future rail traffic.

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