Walk across the triple-arched span of Nuremberg’s oldest stone bridge and imagine how the Old Town would have looked when the bridge opened in 1457.
Bridging two medieval Old Town squares since the mid-15th century, Maxbrücke is a familiar and treasured sight in the Nuremberg streetscape. Formerly known as the Stone Bridge, Maxbrücke spans the Pegnitz River and links two historic squares, Maxplatz and Untschlittplatz. Stroll across the heritage bridge and imagine all the people who have been here over the centuries before you, from the time of the Holy Roman Empire to today.
Walk to the sturdy structure from the tree-lined square of Maxplatz on the northern promenade along the Pegnitz River. This spacious grassy area is a pretty spot for admiring the surrounding streetscape and uninterrupted views of the bridge. Check out the three arches of the bridge, which was designed by the medieval master builder Jakob Grimm. The bridge was named in honor of Bavarian King Maximilian Joseph I in 1810. Later in the 19th century, the bridge was damaged by a fire in the nearby Nägeleinsmühle water tower. The German architect Bernhard Solger completed the repairs and the bridge was reopened to traffic in 1852.
Make your way along the charming old stone bridge. To the east, look for the half-timbered structure of the Henkerhaus spanning the river. To the west, check out the Kettensteg footbridge, which is among the oldest surviving iron chain bridges in Europe. Watch the river water flowing over the weir and admire the surrounding medieval architecture.
Approaching Unschlittplatz, look for the Henkersteg footbridge on the eastern side of Maxbrücke. Enjoy riverfront views or continue southward into Unschlittplatz square, where you’ll find cafés and bars with outdoor seating and shade umbrellas. Grab coffee and a snack or relax with a Nuremberg beer.
Nuremberg’s Maxbrücke is a great addition to a walking tour around Nuremberg’s Old Town. The bridge links the Old Town’s St. Lorenz and St. Sebald quarters, which contain a variety of historic landmarks. Check out the nearby Fleischbrücke, the Gänsemännchenbrunnen goose farmer statue, Nuremberg’s Main Market Square and Frauenkirche. Maxbrücke is a short walk from bus and railway stations.
