If you’ve ever wandered through the heart of Amsterdam and thought about the city’s history, you may have wondered about the lives of the people who lived here in centuries past. What was it like for the residents of the city before it became the bustling tourist hub it is today? One intriguing spot that offers a glimpse into Amsterdam’s past is Blauwbrug, a bridge with an interesting tale to tell.
Located over the Amstel river, Blauwbrug connects two parts of the city, but its origins go deeper than its role in modern transport. The area around Waterloo Square was once very poor, known as Leprozengracht (Leper Canal), named for the people who lived there—most of whom were suffering from leprosy.
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The name Blauwbrug itself comes from the blue railings of two earlier bridges that spanned the river, but there are also claims that it’s derived from the Yiddish word Bloubrik, meaning ‘bridge’. Built in the late 19th century, Blauwbrug was designed to bring prosperity to this struggling neighbourhood. Inspired by the grand Pont Neuf bridge in Paris, it was intended to elevate the area and give it a sense of dignity and importance. And it did just that, giving Amsterdam’s poor a means of crossing the river, while also contributing to the city’s infrastructure development.
Why should you visit Blauwbrug? It’s an iconic part of the city, offering both an historical perspective and one of the best views of Amsterdam’s city centre. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply enjoy unique architecture, crossing this bridge will give you a sense of connection to the past and an appreciation for the city’s transformation.
The nicest thing about Blauwbrug is its stunning view of the Skinny Bridge (Magere Brug), another famous landmark in Amsterdam. While the bridge itself is not a major attraction that will require hours of exploration, it is worth stopping by for a few minutes during a walk around the city. It’s a fantastic spot for photography, especially if you visit around sunrise or sunset, when the light reflects off the water. The bridge is best visited when the streets are less crowded, so try to go early in the morning or later in the evening for a peaceful experience.
Stay tuned to Little Bernie for updates on this monument and follow our social media channels for last-minute information. For Blauwbrug take the tram to Rembrandt Square and walk towards the Amstel River or take the subway or tram to Waterloo Square.
Plan Your Visit
BLAUWBRUG
Blauwbrug
1011 XJ Amsterdam, Netherlands
€
About This Area
WATERLOO SQUARE
This area was once known as the Jewish Quarter of Amsterdam and must have been one of the most lively parts of the city. However, after World War II, most of the historic buildings were demolished. In the 1980s, a modern structure called the Stopera was built in the open space by the Amstel river. Today, the neighbourhood is home to the Jewish Museum and several impressive monuments.
