Magere Brug, or the Skinny Bridge, is one of the most beautiful bridges in Amsterdam. Stretching over the Amstel River right across from the Carré Theatre, it has become a favourite stop for visitors and locals alike. The wooden structure stands out among the city’s many bridges, offering an elegant frame for the river and the houseboats passing below. I’ve always loved its traditional look; there’s something soft and romantic about it, especially in the early morning or at dusk, when the city feels a little quieter. It’s a great spot for photos and one of those places where you can pause for a moment and take in the calm of the Amstel. It’s also a favourite spot for romantic dates and proposals – at least that’s what I’ve heard. I am yet to see a romantic gesture on this bridge.
I learned that it is called a double-swipe balanced bridge, which means that when it opens to let the boats pass, both sides of the bridge rise simultaneously (for most bridges in Amsterdam, only one part is open in order to make space for the boats to pass).
A bit of history
The history of Magere Brug goes back to the 17th century. The first bridge was built on this site in 1691. It was originally known as the Kerkstraatbrug and featured thirteen arches. It was beautiful, but so narrow that locals jokingly began calling it the skinny bridge, a name that eventually became official. By 1871, its condition had deteriorated so badly that it had to be demolished and replaced with a nine-arched wooden bridge. That, too, didn’t last forever. About fifty years later it needed replacing again. Architect Piet Kramer created various designs for a stone and steel version, but the city ultimately chose to keep the familiar look and commissioned a slightly larger wooden bridge instead. The current version, built in 1934 and redesigned by Kramer, is the one we see today. It underwent a major renovation in 1969. Until 1994, the bridge was still opened by hand, but now it’s operated automatically. There’s a lot of traffic on the Amstel river and the bridge has to be opened many times. Since 2003, Magere Brug has been reserved for pedestrians and cyclists, making it an even more pleasant place to walk across and linger for a moment. Although you really have to be careful if you are the pedestrian, as the bikers won’t have mercy for you!
The Legend of Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge)
There’s also a lovely little legend attached to Magere Brug. According to the story, the bridge was originally built by two sisters living on opposite sides of the Amstel, so they could visit each other more easily. It’s one of those tales that has been passed down for generations, adding a romantic touch to the place. And while it’s quite possible the story was invented later, probably to charm the tourists a bit, I still like to imagine the two sisters waving at each other across the narrow river.
The Skinny Bridge is one of my favourite bridges in Amsterdam, and I often bring my photo-shoot clients there. The view never disappoints. If you’re visiting Amsterdam, it’s definitely a landmark worth adding to your list. The charming bridges of Prinseneiland come a close second for me — but those deserve their own story, and I’ll get to them another time!
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