Magere Brug

Magere Brug

The Magere Brug is the only wooden bridge on the canals of Amsterdam, as well as a white drawbridge that can be continually opened and closed in the middle. The current Magere Brug was built in 1934, while the earliest version dates back to 1691 and had 13 arches. Due to its very narrow and slender structure, the bridge underwent several renovations before finally taking on its present form in 1934.

The name of the Magere Brug carries a double meaning: “Magere” refers to the architect’s name, but in Dutch, it also means “slender.” In fact, the bridge’s long, lean lines are part of what makes it charming. Legend has it that a pair of sisters insisted on having this wooden drawbridge built near their home, and their surname happened to be Magere—whether this is mere coincidence or not remains unknown. Since 2003, the Magere Brug has been reserved exclusively for pedestrians and cyclists. To allow boats to pass underneath, the bridge is opened and closed several times a day. At night, the bridge is even more stunning, adorned with more than 1,200 colored lights that create a sparkling, dreamlike glow. The shimmering lights reflecting on the water make for an enchanting scene that is truly captivating.

Skinny Bridge (Magere Brug)

Must-see reason: The only wooden bridge on the canals of Amsterdam

Continent where the attraction is located: Europe【Europe】

Country/region where the attraction is located: Netherlands [Netherlands]

Province/state where the attraction is located: North Holland [North Holland]

City where the attraction is located: Amsterdam [Amsterdam]