The Adolf Bridge was sold

The non-governmental organisation Guides and Scouts for One World has completed the sale of sections of the balustrade from the Adolf Bridge, a landmark in Luxembourg. The stone posts were donated to the Scouts by the National Roads Administration following the bridge’s most recent renovation. Despite the initial scepticism of the campaign organisers, all available pieces, priced at €175 each, were completely sold out. Buyers are mainly using them as decorative features for their gardens. All proceeds from the sale will go towards funding educational projects in countries across Africa and South America.

The historic sections of the balustrade are closely linked to the major reconstruction of the flyover, which took place between 2013 and 2017. During the works to widen the carriageway, the original 500 pillars dating from the early 1960s, made of French limestone, were replaced with new ones made of Luxembourg sandstone quarried in the commune of Ernzen. During the dismantling process, only around 200 of the original piers were preserved intact. Since 2017, the refurbished bridge has also featured a suspended cycle and footpath located beneath the main span.

The Adolf Bridge itself, known to locals as the ‘New Bridge’, was built between 1900 and 1903 and named after the then-reigning Grand Duke Adolf of the House of Nassau. Measuring over 150 metres in length and more than 40 metres in height, the bridge connects the Old Town with the railway station area and held the title of the world’s largest concrete-arch bridge for almost ten years. The bridge was given its second name to distinguish it from the Viaduct, which opened in 1861 and is accordingly known as the ‘Old Bridge’.

Throughout its history, the viaduct has witnessed numerous historical and cultural events. Marie-Anne Werner, a veteran of the Scout movement, notes that in the past, the historic ‘Charly’ train and old trams used to run across the bridge. Furthermore, during circus tours, local residents could watch elephants and giraffes crossing the bridge from the railway station to Glacis Square. The bridge also served as a gathering point for spectators during the wedding ceremony of Prince Jean and Princess Joséphine-Charlotte. Nowadays, the bridge is traditionally used as a viewing platform during the annual fireworks displays.