Consider the Burgtorbrücke a gateway between eras. It stands at the edge of Lübeck’s old town. This bridge whispers tales of defense and trade. It also speaks of a city’s enduring spirit.
The Burgtorbrücke, about 210 meters long, was erected in 1898. Georg Thielen designed it. The bridge marks the northernmost point of the old city island. It extends from the Große Burgstraße near the Burgtor. The bridge heads northeast.
Imagine Lübeck centuries ago. A narrow land bridge once connected the Wakenitz and Trave rivers. This was the only fixed access to the city hill. In the 17th century, Lübeck fortified itself. A moat was constructed, severing the land connection. The first bridge appeared here.
Fast forward to 1805. The city started to dismantle its fortifications. The moat was filled. A solid connection was re-established between the Burgtor and Burgfeld.
Then came the Elbe-Lübeck Canal. In the winter of 1896, the land connection vanished again. The canal replaced the Wakenitz along the old town’s east side. It flowed into the Trave River. The Burgtorbrücke rose in 1898. It is a three-arched steel truss bridge. The road gained its own identity. It was named after the Burgtorbrücke.
Look closely at the town-side abutment. You will see the Elbe-Trave Canal’s foundation stone. It is marked with a decorative plate. Now turn to the bridge’s north end. Two lion statues sit on pedestals. Fritz Behn created them in 1913. They were placed here in 1931. The statues were commissioned for Heinrich Leo Behncke, a wine merchant.
The Burgtorbrücke isn’t just steel and stone. It embodies Lübeck’s resilience. It also represents its adaptability. Consider it a silent witness. It has seen fortifications rise and fall. It has seen waterways created and connections remade. As you cross, remember the Burgtorbrücke’s story. It is a story etched in every arch. The Burgtorbrücke links not just land. It links Lübeck’s past, present, and future.