Old Bridge

Old Bridge Heidelberg - From 1786 to 1788 the Old Bridge was built by order of elector Carl Theodor. It was the first stone bridge across the Neckar river and the people were very happy about it. It replaced a wooden bridge which fell an easy prey to the cold winter of 1784.

Originally the bridge was named after its constructor "Carl Theodor Bridge", but during the years the name Old Bridge took hold. To thank their ruler, the people of Heidelberg raised a monument to Carl Theodor on the bridge. It shows the ruler wearing a crown and a lance. He is sourrounded by four river gods, symbolizing the rivers Neckar, Rhine, Main and Danube.

Another statue on the bridge is showing the greek god Athena. She is said to be the god of wisdom. In this connection the statue symbolizes the superior wisdom of Carl Theodor.

At the south end of the bridge is a bronze statue of a monkey. This statue has been made in 1979 by a famous German sculptor. The monkey is a tribute to the ancient bridge monkey. A wooden prequel of the Old Bridge was home to a statue of a monkey holding a mirror. The statue welcomed every visitor coming to Heidelberg with following words to that effect:

What are you looking at? - Haven't you seen the old monkey?
In Heidelberg, now look around - You will find more of my kind.

An ancient prove the people of Heidelberg had a good sense of humor. Sadly, the statue was destroyed in 1689 during the Nine Years' War. But also the new statue became very popular fast. It is a famous tourist photo motif today.

At the south end of the bridge are many restaurants and cafes. From here, you are in the middle of the Oldtown in less than five minutes. At the north end, you have access to the "Philosophenweg". A footpath with great views over the whole town of Heidelberg.