Across the M. Justbrug the sun sets casting long shadows. This isn’t just any bridge. It’s bridge 803. More importantly it’s the M. Justbrug.
The M Justbrug in Amsterdam South is more than just a concrete structure. It links the Van Nijenrodeweg in Buitenveldert. It spans a waterway running parallel to the Van der Boechorststraat. It’s a vital artery for the neighborhood. A silent witness to the everyday lives of Amsterdammers.
Built in 1961 the M Justbrug is a duikerbrug. This means it’s a bridge over a culvert. Imagine a concrete tube four meters wide. That’s the waterway below. The bridge itself is about 35 meters wide. A lot wider than the original plans showed. The original design lacked the central median strip. You can see it now separating the lanes of traffic.
Notice the smooth gray-green gneiss stone cladding. It’s a detail that doesn’t immediately grab the eye but adds a touch of elegance. It was chosen by architect Peter Pennink. He worked for the Public Works Department. The design also incorporated a small terrace with benches on the northwest corner. That was part of the initial plan. It offers a peaceful spot to rest and enjoy the view.
In April 2013 this unassuming bridge received a prestigious name. It was named after Rabbi Meir Just. He passed away in 2010. He served as Amsterdam’s Chief Rabbi. His grandson and the Israeli ambassador attended the naming ceremony. Rabbi Just often walked across this bridge. He walked between his home and the Jewish Cultural Center. The center was established on Van der Boechorststraat in the 1970s.
The M Justbrug isn’t just a bridge. It’s a connector of communities a quiet observer of history. A testament to the city’s ever-evolving identity. A tribute to a respected religious leader. Next time you cross it take a moment to appreciate its story. It’s a story of Amsterdam itself. A story of connection and remembrance.