Located in the picturesque town of Sønderborg, Denmark, Kong Christian den X's Bro stands as a testament to both engineering prowess and historical significance. This 331-meter-long and 12.6-meter-wide bridge is a vital link between Jutland and the island of Als, spanning the southern part of Als Sund. As one of Denmark's oldest large road bridges, it has a rich history and continues to be an essential part of the region's infrastructure.
The story of Kong Christian den X's Bro begins long before its construction. In 1856, the first permanent connection between Als and Southern Jutland was established with the opening of the pontoon bridge, Frederik VII's Bro, named after King Frederik VII. This bridge, however, faced significant navigational challenges and was eventually deemed inadequate for the growing needs of the region.
After the reunification of Southern Jutland with Denmark in 1920, there was a pressing need for improved infrastructure to support the region's economic development. The Danish state, Sønderborg County, and the city of Sønderborg collaborated to fund the construction of a new bridge. The total cost amounted to 2.85 million DKK, equivalent to approximately 97 million DKK in 2010.
In 1923, Marius Abel Nielsen Slebsager, the then Minister for Public Works, proposed the construction of a new bridge over Als Sund. The Danish Parliament approved the proposal the following year, and construction began in 1925. The bridge was designed by Anker Engelund and built by the firms Monberg & Thorsen from Copenhagen and Allerup Ny Maskinfabrik from Odense.
On October 7, 1930, the bridge was officially inaugurated by King Christian X, after whom it was named. The grand opening ceremony was attended by numerous dignitaries from the city, the region, and the capital. Following the official opening, the public was invited to walk across the bridge, and a flotilla of ships, including the ferry Mommark, sailed through the bridge's passage, marking its inauguration by both land and sea.
The celebrations continued into the evening with a festive atmosphere in Sønderborg. The town hosted a torchlight procession featuring 175 torchbearers, various groups, and orchestras. The procession culminated at the Church Square, where the torches were thrown onto a bonfire, and speeches were delivered by County Governor Lundbye and Mayor Jacobsen.
Today, Kong Christian den X's Bro remains a vital transportation link, accommodating two lanes of vehicular traffic, two bicycle lanes, and a sidewalk for pedestrians. The bridge's design is a combination of an arch and bascule bridge, allowing it to open for maritime traffic. The maximum permitted draft for vessels passing under the bridge is 6.5 meters, with a free passage height of 5 meters and a passage width of 30 meters.
As you cross the bridge, you'll be treated to stunning views of Sønderborg and the surrounding waters. The bridge's strategic location offers a unique vantage point to appreciate the town's charming architecture and the natural beauty of the region. Whether you're driving, cycling, or walking, the experience of crossing Kong Christian den X's Bro is both practical and picturesque.
Kong Christian den X's Bro is more than just a bridge; it symbolizes the region's resilience and progress. Before the construction of the Alsund Bridge in 1981, Kong Christian den X's Bro was the sole bridge connecting Als and Jutland, often leading to traffic congestion. The addition of the Alsund Bridge alleviated some of these issues, but Kong Christian den X's Bro continues to play a crucial role in the area's transportation network.
The bridge's historical significance is also reflected in its dual role as a road and former railway bridge. The railway line to Mommark, which passed over the bridge and through Sønderborg's town center, was an essential part of the region's transportation system. Although passenger traffic on the Mommark line was discontinued in 1962, freight traffic continued until 1998, serving the Solo factory that produced margarine.
Kong Christian den X's Bro stands as a lasting legacy of Danish engineering and a symbol of the region's historical and economic development. Its combination of functionality and aesthetic appeal makes it a noteworthy landmark in Sønderborg. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an engineering aficionado, or simply a traveler seeking to explore the beauty of Denmark, a visit to Kong Christian den X's Bro is a must.
As you stroll along the bridge, take a moment to reflect on its storied past and the countless individuals who have crossed its span over the decades. From its inception as a vital transportation link to its role in connecting communities and fostering economic growth, Kong Christian den X's Bro is a true testament to the enduring spirit of Sønderborg and Southern Jutland.
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