Isn’t it romantic to stand here at Fred’s Brug? It is a bridge that whispers tales of love and history. Fred’s Brug is more than just a crossing. It is a symbol of Amsterdam itself.
Let’s delve into the story of bridges in Amsterdam. You will discover that they are as vital to the city as its canals. The Magere Brug, or Skinny Bridge, is a great example.
The first bridge on the Magere Brug site was built in 1691. It was known as Kerkstraatbrug. This original bridge had 13 arches. Locals found it very narrow, so they nicknamed it “magere brug”. That literally means “skinny bridge”.
By 1871, the bridge was in bad shape. It was torn down. A new nine-arched wooden bridge replaced it. About 50 years later, this bridge also needed replacement.
The city then turned to architect Piet Kramer. He designed a steel and stone bridge. But the city chose to build a new bridge. It would look like the old one. It would just be a bit bigger.
In 1934, they demolished that bridge. Then they built Kramer’s redesign. The last major renovation occurred in 1969. Until 1994, the bridge was opened by hand. Now, it operates automatically.
Since 2003, only pedestrians and cyclists can use the Magere Brug. The center part opens many times each day. This allows river traffic to pass. Tour boats can pass under the bridge when it is closed. 1,200 light bulbs decorate the bridge. They light up the evening.
A popular story tells of two sisters. They lived on opposite sides of the Amstel River. They wanted to visit each other daily. They could not afford a wide bridge. So, they built a narrow one. Hence, the name Skinny Bridge.
Another version says the sisters’ last name was Mager. “Mager” means skinny. So, the bridge took their name, not because of its width. Recent research tells a different story. Amsterdam planned a grand stone bridge during its Golden Age. But economic troubles in 1672 forced them to scale back. They built a simple structure instead.
Locals consider the Magere Brug the most romantic spot in Amsterdam. People often propose marriage here. Lovers take strolls across it. Legend says a kiss on this bridge guarantees eternal love. Even passing under it by boat ensures lasting love.
The bridge has appeared in films like the 1971 James Bond movie Diamonds Are Forever. A tour guide tells the bridge’s story in the film.
Another notable bridge is the Blauwbrug. “Blauwbrug” means Blue Bridge. The name comes from a blue wooden bridge that stood here around 1600. It was painted the color of the Dutch flag. In 1883, they replaced it with a stone bridge. Its design was inspired by Parisian bridges over the Seine, like the Pont Alexandre III.
The stone Blauwbrug has three openings for ships. It is richly decorated. The bases resemble ships’ bows. Columns with leaf motifs and masks adorn the bridge. The Imperial Crown of Austria sits on top. This crown also appears in Amsterdam’s coat of arms. Even the lantern poles have shipping decorations.
Fred’s Brug is a crossing and a testament to Amsterdam’s spirit. Remember the stories of love. Think of its history. As you cross, carry a piece of Amsterdam in your heart.