Flowing gently through Erfurt’s Old Town is the Breitstrom. This is not just any river branch. The Breitstrom is a part of the Gera river.
Let’s dive into the Breitstrom’s journey. It begins shortly after the Lange Brücke in Erfurt’s center. Here, the Bergstrom and Walkstrom meet and merge. They form the Breitstrom. The Breitstrom then flows past the Neue Mühle. It continues under the Schlösserbrücke. Then it flows under the Rathausbrücke and the Krämerbrücke. Finally, it passes under the Lehmannsbrücke.
Notice how the Breitstrom branches out. It forms separate arms. These arms run close to each other. In the north of the Old Town is an area called Venedig. Here, the Wilde Gera used to flow into the Breitstrom. The Wilde Gera came from the east. This confluence created the Gera again. But the Wilde Gera was filled in 1898. Now, north of Erfurt’s Old Town, the river is simply called the Gera.
The Breitstrom creates several islands within Erfurt’s Old Town. Some of these islands are built on. One is the peninsula at the Fischersand. Before the Walkstrom and Bergstrom join to form the Breitstrom, they flow parallel for about 500 meters. They flow between the Brunnenkirche and the Schlösserbrücke. They encircle a narrow peninsula. This peninsula is about two hectares. The western part is developed with buildings. This is the street called Fischersand. The eastern part is undeveloped. It is covered with trees.
Another island sits at the Junkersand. This small island is only about 550 square meters. It lies below the Schlösserbrücke. This island is covered with trees. City ducks use it as a safe retreat. It is safe from dogs, cats, and other predators.
Consider the island at the Dämmchen. This island stretches from the Rathausbrücke to the Lehmannsbrücke. It has been developed since the Middle Ages. The Krämerbrücke crosses over it. Several small footbridges provide access to the island. In the past, it was mainly occupied by mills. After reunification, it was redesigned. Now it is a small green space with walking paths. This island is about 300 meters long. It covers about 0.9 hectares.
Finally, there is an island in Venedig. This island has also been transformed into a park. It features walking paths. This island covers about 0.7 hectares. There are two residential buildings on it.
The Breitstrom is more than just a river arm. It is an integral part of Erfurt’s history. It shapes the city’s landscape. It provides refuge for wildlife. It offers green spaces for residents and visitors. It connects different parts of the Old Town. The Breitstrom quietly flows. It has witnessed centuries of Erfurt’s evolution. Take a moment to appreciate its presence and its contribution to the city’s unique character.