WHITE BRIDGE - COMPLETION IN OCTOBER

The iconic landmark in the city center is undergoing renovation work aimed at restoring and preserving this historic building for future generations. It should be completed in October.

Preservation of the Historical Structure

The White Bridge, built in 1911, is characterized by its white arches, which have become an integral part of the Špindlerův Mlýn panorama. The reconstruction focuses on preserving the original structure of the bridge, with an emphasis on respecting its historical character. The bridge will continue to serve exclusively for pedestrian traffic, thus maintaining its role as a key part of the pedestrian zone in the city center.

 

Financing the Reconstruction

The reconstruction costs amount to CZK 11.3 million. The town of Špindlerův Mlýn has received a grant for this project from the Czechia-Poland program, which will cover a substantial part of the costs. The town is contributing 15 percent of the total amount to the financing. This cooperation will enable the implementation of the project and contribute to the development of the region.

 

History of the Bridge

The history of the bridge dates back to 1829, when a wooden bridge stood in its place, reinforced by a timber pillar in the middle of the Elbe River. This bridge served for decades, but on July 29, 1897, it was swept away by a devastating flood. The flood caused considerable damage throughout Špindlerův Mlýn, destroying the bridge to Bedřichov, the smithy, the count's sawmill, and the paper mill at Tabulové boudy, and significantly damaging the road to Vrchlabí. As a result of this disaster, extensive modifications were made to the Elbe riverbed in the city center between 1899 and 1913, and a temporary footbridge was built. In 1911, the current reinforced concrete segmental arch bridge was built, which today is an important part of the pedestrian zone leading from the Czech Post Office building to the Savoy Royal Hotel.

 

Architectural Characteristics

The White Bridge is a 27.6-meter-long and 4.84-meter-wide reinforced concrete bridge. Its dominant feature is a pair of arches that rise above the roadway and form a characteristic landmark of the city center. Sidewalks run along the edges of the bridge, separated from the roadway by low walls. The original wooden railing with 17 posts with a lattice motif gave the bridge a specific appearance. At its highest point, the bridge reaches a height of 3.65 meters.

 

Significance for the city

The reconstruction of the White Bridge is crucial for Špindlerův Mlýn not only in terms of preserving its historical heritage, but also in terms of maintaining the aesthetic character and functionality of the city center. The bridge plays an important role in transport and pedestrian traffic, and its reconstruction will ensure that it continues to serve its purpose for the residents and visitors of Špindlerův Mlýn. The restored White Bridge will thus remain one of the most important landmarks of this popular mountain resort.

 

Source: Krkonošský deník and Wikipedia