Weser bridge

Spanning the serene waters of the Weser River, the Weser bridge (locally known as Weserbrücke) in Porta Westfalica, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, stands as a testament to human ingenuity and resilience. This bridge, nestled within the picturesque Weser breakthrough valley, is more than just a functional structure; it is a piece of history that has evolved through the ages, reflecting the region's industrial heritage and wartime struggles.

The Early Days: The Chain Bridge

The story of the Weser bridge begins in 1865 with the construction of the first bridge, a chain bridge, between Barkhausen and Hausberge. This bridge, with a span of 87.9 meters, was initially built to serve the Porta Westfalica ironworks. It facilitated the transport of coal via a horse-drawn tramway from the Porta Westfalica railway station to the ironworks in Barkhausen. Before the bridge's existence, coal had to be ferried across the Weser River, a cumbersome and costly process.

Although the ironworks ceased operations in 1868 due to high transportation costs, the narrow-gauge track on the bridge remained for years. The bridge also played a crucial role in connecting the railway station to the newly inaugurated Kaiser Wilhelm Monument in 1896. To accommodate this, a road was constructed up to the river on an embankment. The bridge was closed at night, and a toll was collected during the day.

However, the bridge met a tragic end during the final stages of World War II. On the morning of April 4, 1945, a demolition team from the Pioneer Replacement Battalion 6 in Minden blew up the bridge to slow the advancing Allied forces. The approaching U.S. Army soon established a pontoon crossing slightly north of the destroyed bridge.

The Second Weser Bridge: A Post-War Marvel

In the aftermath of World War II, a new bridge was constructed at the same location. This second Weser bridge, completed in 1954, was a hollow box girder bridge made of steel, spanning 247.8 meters with three openings and a maximum span of 106.2 meters. At the time, it was the largest fully welded steel superstructure in Germany, featuring an orthotropic deck for the first time.

The construction of this bridge was a remarkable feat. The superstructure was assembled on-site, and the eastern abutment was reinforced to support the bridge. Additionally, a ramp was built to provide access to the Kurfürst Hotel. The bridge was located just south of the old chain bridge but still north of the railway station. In its early years, the bridge also accommodated the Minden trolleybus system.

The Modern Era: The Third Weser Bridge

The Weser bridge we see today, the third iteration, was inaugurated on December 9, 1995. This modern bridge was constructed south of the Porta railway station, at a new location, to alleviate traffic congestion in the Barkhausen district. The old bridge and its ramps were subsequently removed.

The current Weser bridge is a composite steel bridge with a hollow box girder superstructure. It consists of two separate, all-around closed steel hollow boxes, which are connected to the prestressed concrete deck slab with headed studs. This design ensures the bridge's strength and durability, allowing it to handle the continuous flow of vehicular traffic through the breakthrough valley of the Porta Westfalica.

While the bridge facilitates modern transportation needs, it also serves as a reminder of the region's historical and industrial past. The extension of the B65 highway over the southern bridge to the west and the proposed tunnel through the Wiehen Hills to the south towards the A30 highway were halted due to citizen protests in the planning years after 1970.

Exploring Porta Westfalica and Beyond

Visitors to the Weser bridge in Porta Westfalica are treated to more than just an engineering marvel. The surrounding area is rich in natural beauty and historical significance. The Kaiser Wilhelm Monument, perched atop the Wittekindsberg, offers breathtaking views of the Weser River and the surrounding landscape. This monument, dedicated to Emperor Wilhelm I, is a popular tourist destination and a symbol of German unity and pride.

The Weser River itself is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're interested in boating, fishing, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll along its banks, the river provides a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The lush greenery and rolling hills that frame the river create a picturesque backdrop for any activity.

For those interested in delving deeper into the region's history, the nearby towns of Barkhausen and Hausberge offer a glimpse into the past. From charming half-timbered houses to local museums, these towns provide a rich cultural experience that complements the historical significance of the Weser bridge.

In conclusion, the Weser bridge in Porta Westfalica is not just a bridge; it is a living piece of history that has witnessed the evolution of a region. From its humble beginnings as a chain bridge serving the ironworks to its current status as a modern transportation artery, the bridge stands as a testament to human resilience and ingenuity. As you traverse this iconic structure, take a moment to reflect on the stories it holds and the journey it has undertaken through the ages.