How about a bridge with a royal connection? This is the Marienbrücke. It offers a unique view.
The Marienbrücke got its name from Queen Marie. She was King Maxmillian II of Bavaria’s wife. She loved to hike. The first Marienbrücke was built in 1845. King Maxmillian II ordered a wooden footbridge. It crossed the Pöllat gorge.
But that bridge wasn’t sturdy enough. After a few years, it needed replacing. A stronger structure was built. It had three layers of beams. Lateral support beams added even more strength. But King Ludwig II didn’t like its look.
Ludwig II replaced it with an iron structure in 1866. The Gustavsburg workshops built it. They belonged to Maschinenbau-Gesellschaft Nürnberg. Today, it’s known as M.A.N.
The Marienbrücke tested a new construction method. Girders were erected from rock anchorings. This happened 90 meters above the Pöllat cascade. Support frames were pre-constructed. No supportive braces were needed.
In 1984, the Marienbrücke was restored. The girders were renewed. However, the original barristers from 1866 were kept.
More recently, in 2015, the bridge closed temporarily. Restoration work was done on the rock anchorings. Damaged anchorings were repaired. The iron structure and wooden floorboards got new coatings. The renovation cost about 650,000 euros. In August 2016, the Marienbrücke reopened.
From 2021 to mid-2022, the Marienbrücke closed again. All rock anchors had to be replaced. This was due to structural problems.
The Marienbrücke gives you a fantastic view of Neuschwanstein Castle. It’s a great photo opportunity.
To reach the Marienbrücke, you can park near Hohenschwangau castle. From there, walk uphill. It takes about 45 minutes. Or you can take a shuttle bus.
Please note that the shuttle bus runs depending on visitor demand.
In winter, the Marienbrücke may be closed. This is due to ice and snow. Check for current information before visiting.
Even if the Marienbrücke is closed, you can still visit Neuschwanstein Castle.
The Marienbrücke stands as a testament to architectural innovation. It offers breathtaking views and royal history. It is a must-see.