Decades before you stood here, in 1927 to be exact, the Boerenweteringbrug was born. Today, we explore this Amsterdam-Zuid landmark. This is no ordinary bridge. The Boerenweteringbrug connects the Van Hilligaertstraat with the Stadionweg. It’s actually part of a quartet of bridges designed to manage traffic flow around De Kom.
Back in 1922 city planners saw the need for a bridge here due to the expanding city. However construction faced delays. Finally in 1925, they pushed for quick action. The Boerenweteringbrug emerged in 1926 and 1927. Piet Kramer designed it. By September 1927 traffic flowed smoothly across it. Kramer embraced the Amsterdamse School style evident in the brick and natural stone work.
Look closely at the bridge. Notice the wrought iron railings. Did you spot the sculptures? These are the work of Hildo Krop. They stand like pillars supporting the bridge. Oddly they face inward toward the water. Some say these sculptures relate to a poem by Abraham Eliazer van Collem. Researchers have struggled to confirm this connection.
The Boerenweteringbrug features unique sculptures. At the north side a man with protective hands watches over a family. The family members are depicted in decreasing size. On the south side are several heads. There is also a figure with a bow between raised hands and stars. The artwork is inspired by van Collem’s poem. It speaks of an artist guiding people to heaven.
Kramer and Krop were a great team. Kramer served as the aesthetic consultant. Krop was the sculptor. Together they shaped the look of almost all Amsterdam’s bridges.
The Boerenwetering itself has quite a history. It once drained the Amstelveen peatlands. Originally it stretched all the way to the Spui and Nieuwezijds Kolk. Over time city expansions shortened it. Today the Boerenwetering flows into a rectangular pond between Beatrixpark and the RAI.
Take a moment to appreciate the Boerenweteringbrug. It is more than just a crossing. It represents Amsterdam’s urban development. The bridge showcases the beauty of the Amsterdamse School style. It also features the artistic collaboration of Kramer and Krop. As you continue your journey remember the Boerenweteringbrug. It is a testament to Amsterdam’s rich history and artistic spirit.