Be sure not to miss the iconic landmarkthat is the Eiserner Steg footbridge. Cross the beautifully built green steelconstruction to experience a piece of Frankfurt’s history firsthand, or simplycatch a magnificent view of the city from the bridge’s focal point.
The Eiserner Steg was opened in 1869 toalleviate the heavy traffic on the only bridge between the northern and southernparts of town. The 170-metre (560-foot) bridge is for pedestrians only, andconnects Frankfurt’s Old Town to the Sachsenhausen over the Main River.
Amazingly, The Eiserner Steg wasoriginally funded and built entirely by private donations. Even after manycomplaints about the amounts of traffic on the one bridge that crossed the mainriver, the Government refused to act for budgetary reasons. So the public tookresponsibility and paid for it out of their own pockets.
Enjoy the history of this unique bridgeas you cross it. It was in fact rebuilt in 1946 after German soldiers hadit destroyed to slow down oncoming Allied troops. Join the 10,000 pedestrianswho use it daily today.
Take this special opportunity in themiddle of the bridge to enjoy the spectacular views on either side. Look to thenorth to see Frankfurt’s famous skyline or turn to the south to see thestunning Museumsufer (Museum Embankment).
Keep an eye out for the Greek phraseinscribed into the top of the bridge. It comes from Homer’s Odyssey and is translated as: “Whilesailing over the wine-dark sea to men of strange speech.”
The Eiserner Steg is a convenient way ofgetting between some of Frankfurt’s best destinations. Browse shops andrestaurants on the north side, and then head to the south to see delightfulhistoric buildings and museums in Frankfurt’s Old Town.
Crossing the Eiserner Steg is free. Thebridge has stairs on either side, but is also wheelchair-accessible via specialelevators. Access the bridge via the Old Town U-Bahn station or use the ample parking space.
