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Bridge · Erfurt, Turíngia
Krämerbrücke
Stone bridge dating from 1325 over the river Gera, lined on both sides with half-timbered houses. With 32 houses, it is the longest bridge in Europe with houses along its entire length.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Krämerbrücke
The Krämerbrücke, the merchants' bridge, crosses the Gera River in the centre of Erfurt and is the longest bridge in Europe lined with houses along its full length. It was part of the Via Regia, an old trade route between east and west. There were wooden bridges on the site earlier; after several fires the town built the stone bridge, completed in 1325.
Today there are 32 half-timbered houses, many with craft shops, galleries, sweet shops and cafés on the ground floor. The bridge is about 125 metres long and functions as a narrow street: people crossing it hardly notice they are over a river. To see the arches, go down to the Gera’s bank near the Wenigemarkt.
At the eastern end, the Ägidienkirche forms an arched gateway to the bridge. It is a Gothic church that already existed as a chapel in 1110. Its tower has 128 steps and from the top you can see the bridge roofs and, in the distance, the cathedral, São Severo and the Petersberg.
In June, the Krämerbrücke festival usually fills the bridge and neighbouring streets with music and medieval costumes, and draws large crowds.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 30 minutes to 1 hour, including the climb of the Ägidienkirche tower and the view from the river bank.
Best time
Early in the morning, before the shops open, or late afternoon when the crowds thin out. During the bridge festival, usually held in June, the place gets very busy.
How to get there
It is located between the Benediktsplatz and the Wenigemarkt, about a 5-minute walk from the Fischmarkt. From Erfurt Hauptbahnhof it’s about a 15-minute walk.
Tip
Climb the Ägidienkirche tower to see the bridge roof from above; check opening times beforehand. Then go down to the Gera’s bank at the Wenigemarkt to view the stone arches.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Krämerbrücke
Are the houses on the Krämerbrücke inhabited?
Yes. Many have shops on the ground floor and residences above. Respect the residents' privacy.
From where can you see the whole bridge?
From the tower of the Ägidienkirche at the east end, and from the bank of the river Gera near the Wenigemarkt, where the stone arches are visible.
When is the Krämerbrücke festival?
It usually takes place in June for three days, with music and medieval costumes. Check the dates for the year.