35 Creuzburg Werrabrücke with Liborius Chapel

35 Creuzburg Werrabrücke with Liborius Chapel 

Located just outside the town of Creuzburg, a seven-arched bridge spans the Werra River.

It is considered the oldest stone bridge north of the Main River and was constructed in 1223 on the initiative of Thuringian Landgrave Ludwig IV.

The arches are subjected to compressive forces, so virtually no tensile stresses are created.

This means that materials that cannot withstand or can only tolerate small tensile forces can be used, allowing the construction of vaulted ceilings and domes with large spans in ancient times.

In the Middle Ages, the trade route from Kassel to Erfurt passed over this bridge.

During World War II, the bridge was destroyed, but it was faithfully rebuilt after the war.

Until 1986, the road to Eisenach crossed the bridge. Today, it serves as the starting point for hiking trails through the Werratal.

In 1499, the slender Liborius Chapel was built at the eastern end of the bridge, its interior adorned with a starry vault.

The walls feature many frescoes, some of which date back to the 16th century.

 

Additional information: 

Tourist Information Creuzburg
Auf der Burg
99831 Creuzburg
Tel.: 036926 / 9 80 47
Email: tourismus@creuzburg.de

http://www.creuzburg-online.de