Nydeggbrücke (Nydegg Bridge), Bern

Nydegg Bridge (Nydeggbrücke) in Bern is an emblematic freestone bridge connecting the eastern part of the historic old city to its newer sections. Spanning the Aare River near the notable Bärengraben, Nydegg Bridge was constructed as a supplementary route to the older Untertor Bridge (Untertorbrücke), which, before 1840, was the sole bridge crossing the Aare in the area.

Construction of Nydegg Bridge commenced in August 1840 under the supervision of lead engineer Karl Emanuel Müller, following a detailed three-year planning phase. Workers faced numerous challenges, including severe floods, yet managed to secure the bridge's pillars by May 1841. The cornerstone was set in June of the same year, and by fall, construction on the arches began, culminating in the completion of the central arch by summer 1843. The bridge's completion was marked by a grand celebration on 23 November 1844.

Measuring 190 meters in length and 10.5 meters wide at the ends, the bridge narrows to 7.5 meters across its central span. The structure is supported by pillars 14 meters wide, with the grand central arch spanning 46 meters, flanked by two side arches of 16.5 meters each. This was the largest arch in Europe until the 1890s. The bridge rises 25 meters above the river, built primarily from Merlinger and Jura limestone, and clad in blue sandstone sourced from Ostermundingen.

Nydegg Bridge is recognized as a Swiss heritage site of national significance, not only for its architectural prowess and historical value but also as a vital link in the urban landscape of Bern.