Magere Brug literally translated means “Skinny Bridge” and was given this name due to the width of the original bridge built in 1691. Since then, the bridge has been demolished and replaced on three separate occasions.
The existing bridge was built in 1934 based on a traditional double leaf Dutch drawbridge design – also known as known as a double-swipe (balanced) bridge. Similar bridges can be found in Amsterdam (at the Staalstraat/Grimburgwal, Nieuwe Herengracht, Rapenburg, Prinseneiland and Bickerseiland).
Since 2003, the bridge has been closed to traffic and is only used by pedestrians and cyclists. Magere Brug is raised many times a day in order to let through larger river traffic.
Magere Brug is a very popular attraction for photographers especially at night time when it’s 1200 lights are illuminated. It has also featured in a number of films such as the James Bond movie Diamonds are Forever.
location
Magere Brug is located just after the intersection of Keizersgracht and Amstel, just 400m south of Blauwbrug. Nearest metro is Waterlooplein or Weesperplein.
photo tips
– Looks good lit up at night time. Shoot with a tripod on a long exposure to get some interesting light trails from passing boats & cyclists.
– Shoot from Blauwbrug to capture the bridge in its entirety.
– Take a few close-ups of the bridge’s chains and lifting mechanism.
– Shoot from river level by taking a canal boat cruise.
– The bridge is not too colourful but this can be used to your advantage. Use the bridge as a backdrop for a colourful foreground subject like a bike or some flowers.
– Wait patiently and you will be able to catch the bridge opening to let larger boats pass through.
sights nearby
Blauwbrug – Amstel
Reguliersgracht
Waterlooplein