The Grunwaldzki Bridge in Wrocław is one of the most interesting engineering structures in Poland. With its characteristic hanging construction and relatively low height, the massive steel structure gives the impression of being light and slender. The structure has been in operation since 1910 as a road and tramway crossing. After more than a century of use, the time has come for a comprehensive renovation of the Grunwald Bridge to restore its historic details and ensure its continued and safe use. The Lower Silesian Provincial Conservator of Monuments has just issued a permit for the investment.
Symbol of Wrocław
The bridge was opened on 10 October 1910. At the time, it was called Kaiserbrücke, or Emperor’s Bridge, named in honour of Emperor William II. The structure was made of riveted steel and its load-bearing elements rested on brick pylons faced with granite, measuring about 20 metres high. During the siege of Festung Breslau in 1945, some architectural elements were removed from the bridge to make way for a temporary airfield in the Grunwald Square area. The bridge itself was dismantled and secured on barges, allowing it to survive the war effort. After they ended, the structure was rebuilt, but not all the elements of the original structure were returned to their place. Among other things, the finials of the pylons and some of the bas-reliefs were missing.
Grunwaldzki Bridge renovation – scope of works
The planned renovation involves restoring full functionality to the bridge and revitalising it. The project includes, among other things, the reconstruction of the finials of the pylons in the form of domes, which were there before World War II. The works will also include the replacement of the reinforced concrete deck slab, road surface and insulation. An assessment of the technical condition of the steel structure will also be carried out to strengthen its load-bearing capacity to 40 tonnes. The plans include the replacement of corroded components and equipment of the structure, including paving slabs. The investment also includes the modernisation of the tramway tracks, which will be carried out in cooperation with MPK Wrocław.
Attention to detail and historical identity
The renovation will be carried out under strict conservation supervision. The works will involve the restoration of the original lanterns, bas-reliefs and other historical details, as well as an attempt to establish and reconstruct the original colour scheme of the bridge. All activities will be subordinated to preserving the existing spatial and functional structure. Additionally, as part of the project, it is planned to create a pedestrian and bicycle route, which will connect the boulevard and the quay under the Grunwaldzki Bridge. This solution is to relate to the currently functioning infrastructure under the Peace Bridge. The works will take at least a year.
Source: Lower Silesian Regional Monuments Conservator
Read also: Architecture in Poland | Renovation | History | Monument | Wrocław | Interesting facts
Grunwaldzki Bridge in 1931 and 2024. Source: http://fortepan.hu and Google Maps
