The Bridge Tower at Langebro is a fascinating time capsule from the 1950s, with its beautiful green exterior and fully preserved interior. Step inside the bridge tower, learn about the history of Langebro, and enjoy a spectacular view over Copenhagen Harbour as well as the bascule pit beneath the bridge.
Langebro carries 50,000 cars across daily, so you’ve probably crossed the bridge between Copenhagen and Amager yourself. Perhaps you’ve noticed the turquoise bridge tower rising up in the middle of the bridge. During Open House, you now have the chance for a unique look behind the façade.
From industrial harbour to recreational area
Langebro was completed in 1954. The man behind its construction was Kaj Gottlob, who served as both engineer and architect for the bridge. The new Langebro replaced the old wooden bridge from the 1600s, and with it came the ability to open for passing ship traffic in the busy industrial harbour.
When Langebro opens for ships, the bridge leaves at its centre lift, and their rear ends roll down into a bascule pit. This is operated from the bridge tower, which in 1954 was staffed around the clock. Back then, there were 12,000 openings a year; today the number is fewer than 200. This change tells the story of the harbour’s transformation from an industrial port to a recreational space.
Experience the original interior
During Open House, you can step inside the tower, which is normally closed to the public. Here, the interior remains untouched, and visitors can climb right to the top as well as down beneath the roadway to the bascule pit. See the deep chamber where the bridge leaves descend and the original 1954 machinery, still faithfully ensuring the bridge opens.
From the tower, you’ll enjoy a magnificent view over Copenhagen Harbour, with several of the 11 movable bridges in the Inner Harbour in sight.
Registration is required.
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