Old Bridge (Karl Theodor Bridge)
Alte Brücke
A nine-arch red sandstone bridge completed in 1788. Its white twin-tower gate and the bronze monkey at the bridgehead are Heidelberg’s most iconic sights.
The Old Bridge spans the Neckar, linking the Old Town with Neuenheim on the north bank. It is the ninth bridge to stand on this site and was built of red sandstone in 1786–1788 under Elector Karl Theodor. The gate at the south end consists of two white domed towers and was once part of the medieval city walls. On the west side of the bridgehead stands a bronze monkey holding a mirror. Legend says that touching the mirror in the monkey’s hand brings wealth, and touching its fingers means you will return to Heidelberg. You can also poke your head through the opening in the monkey’s head for a photo. Standing in the middle of the bridge and looking back, you can capture the bridge gate, the spire of the Church of the Holy Spirit and the castle on the hill all in one frame. After crossing, follow the Schlangenweg (Snake Path) uphill to reach the Philosophers’ Walk.
Opening hours
Open all day
Nearby sights
- Church of the Holy Spirit & Marktplatz
- Friedrich Ebert Memorial
- Haus zum Ritter
- Kornmarkt
- Jesuit Church
- Heidelberg University & Student Prison
- Hauptstrasse
- Heidelberg Christmas Market