The railway bridge in Meissen, Germany: a structure with a long history

Abstract

The railway bridge over the Elbe River in Meissen, Germany, is approximately 100 years old and has had an eventful history. The beginnings of the structure were characterised by vigorous discussions and numerous proposed designs. With the assistance of the well-known architect Heinrich Tessenow, a modern and harmonious steel structure was developed. The bridge was destroyed during the Second World War and was rebuilt afterwards, although for decades, only a single-track use was possible. Only after the turn of the millennium did a comprehensive rehabilitation of the bridge take place. Through committed efforts, the engineers managed to maintain the railway operations over the old structure despite several obstacles.