Eulenbachbrücke

Nestled in the picturesque town of Velbert in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, the Eulenbachbrücke, also known as the Eulenbach Viaduct, is a marvel of early 20th-century engineering and an enduring symbol of the region's rich history. This former railway bridge, affectionately dubbed the Saubrücke by locals, now serves as a scenic pathway for cyclists and pedestrians, providing a unique blend of historical charm and natural beauty.

The History of Eulenbachbrücke

The story of the Eulenbachbrücke begins in the early 20th century, amidst the industrial expansion of the German Empire. The bridge was constructed as part of the Niederbergbahn, a railway line intended to connect the towns of Wülfrath and Essen-Kettwig, with Velbert as a key stop. The construction of the bridge commenced in May 1914, under the direction of the Elberfeld Railway Directorate, and was built using natural stone, a testament to the architectural preferences of the era.

The outbreak of World War I in 1914 brought construction to a halt, but work resumed in 1915 with the help of unemployed factory workers and Russian prisoners of war. Despite a dramatic incident in the summer of 1915, when a construction train fell off the bridge without causing any injuries, the Eulenbachbrücke was completed by the summer of 1915. However, the completion of the railway line itself was delayed until after the war, with the bridge finally opening for freight traffic on February 15, 1924, and for passenger traffic on March 31, 1925.

The Eulenbachbrücke served as a vital transportation link for several decades. Passenger services ceased in 1960, but the bridge continued to support freight traffic until December 28, 1994, when the last official freight train crossed its arches. The bridge fell into disuse following the closure of the Niederbergbahn in 2006, but its story was far from over.

Revival as Part of the Panoramic Cycle Path

In the years following the closure of the railway, there was much debate about the future of the Eulenbachbrücke. The idea to repurpose the former railway line as a cycle path gained traction, and by 2009, concrete plans were in place. Construction began the following year, and on July 16, 2011, the Panoramaradweg Niederbergbahn was officially opened, breathing new life into the Eulenbachbrücke.

Today, the bridge is a key feature of this panoramic cycle path, which stretches from Essen-Kettwig to Wülfrath. The path offers cyclists and pedestrians stunning views of the surrounding landscape, with the Eulenbachbrücke providing a particularly breathtaking vantage point over the Eulenbach Valley.

Architectural Features

The Eulenbachbrücke is an impressive structure, spanning 168 meters in length and rising to a height of 40 meters. It is supported by seven arches, each with a span of approximately 20 meters, creating a series of elegant curves that blend harmoniously with the natural surroundings. The bridge's core is constructed from rammed concrete, while its exterior is faced with rough stone, giving it a robust yet aesthetically pleasing appearance.

At the time of its construction, the Eulenbachbrücke was the highest bridge faced with natural stone in the former Prussian Rhine Province, a testament to the engineering prowess of its creators. Its design and construction reflect the industrial ambitions of the early 20th century, while its current use as a cycle path highlights the region's commitment to preserving its historical heritage in a sustainable and accessible manner.

The Name and Local Significance

The official name of the bridge, Eulenbachbrücke, is derived from the Rinderbach River, also known locally as the Eulenbach, which flows through the valley spanned by the bridge. The name Eulenbach lives on in the form of the street name Uelenbeek in the region.

However, the bridge is more commonly referred to as the Saubrücke by locals. This nickname originates from a nearby farm known as In der Sau, which was demolished in 1965. The term Sau refers to a swamp, reflecting the marshy conditions of the area. This colloquial name is a charming reminder of the bridge's place in local folklore and its enduring presence in the community's collective memory.

Visiting the Eulenbachbrücke

For those visiting Velbert, a trip to the Eulenbachbrücke is a must. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply someone who enjoys a scenic walk or bike ride, the bridge offers something for everyone. As you traverse its length, take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship that went into its construction and the historical events it has witnessed.

The Eulenbachbrücke stands as a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of the past, while its current role as part of the Panoramaradweg Niederbergbahn ensures that it remains a vibrant and integral part of the community. So, lace up your walking shoes or hop on your bike, and explore this fascinating piece of Velbert's history.