Cast a glance at the enchanting Amstel River while overlooking the iconic Skinny Bridge. Consisting of two drawbridges, this bridge connects the centre of Amsterdam with the tranquil surroundings of the Amstel River. The story of this bridge goes back further than its construction.
Architect Daniel Stalpaert already integrated the Skinny Bridge into his detailed city plans from 1662. Although the city long cherished the desire to build the bridge, financial setbacks during the disaster year 1672 led to the project being postponed. Only in the last decade of the 17th century was the bridge finally built, after the Amstel riverbank had developed.
The nickname "The Skinny Bridge" arose because of the choice of a cheaper and narrower wooden construction instead of the usual stone one. However, there are other explanations for this name. According to some stories, there were two skinny sisters, possibly named Mager, who lived on opposite sides of the Amstel river and built the bridge to easily visit each other. Another theory suggests that the name comes from the narrow passages on the bridge.
Every year on 5 May, Liberation Day, a concert is held at the bridge, where music merges with the timeless surroundings. Moreover, the Skinny Bridge has featured in several well-known films, including the James Bond classic "Diamonds Are Forever".
Sources. Story: denederlanden.com Photos: Stadsarchief Amsterdam
