October 5, 2025, 5:53 am | Read time: 5 minutes

Since 1325, Germany’s most famous bridge has stood in Erfurt, the capital of Thuringia. Throughout its eventful history, it has withstood multiple fires, served as an important trade center early on, and narrowly escaped demolition. In 2025, the Krämerbrücke will celebrate its 700th anniversary, though it is actually much older. Surrounded by UNESCO World Heritage sites in Erfurt’s old town, it remains one of the undisputed visitor highlights, staying true to its roots. As it has for centuries, numerous shops still line Europe’s longest built-up and inhabited bridge.

According to the official Krämerbrücke website, managed by the city administration, the history of the viaduct began nearly 1,000 years ago. Early on, a wooden predecessor of today’s bridge was built over the Gera River to ease the way for merchants. At that time, various significant trade routes converged in Erfurt. Mathias Kabisch, head of marketing at Erfurt Tourism and Marketing GmbH, told TRAVELBOOK: “Erfurt was also located on the Via Regia, one of the most important medieval trade routes. With the construction of the bridge, the first merchants and Krämer, or traders, settled in the area around and on the bridge itself. It is from them that the bridge gets its current name.”

High-Quality Goods, Not “Kram”

The term Krämer has nothing to do with the modern association of the German word “Kram” (which refers to something with no value), but quite the opposite. “The word is not derogatory; it refers to high-quality, small, luxury, and indulgence goods. The Krämerbrücke has remained true to this tradition to this day. You can still find unique items here.” The structure was first mentioned in 1156 as “pons rerum venalium,” or “bridge of offered goods.” Even then, stalls and sales stands were found there. In 1325, the stone form of the monument was created, which still fascinates visitors from around the world today. The city of Erfurt had previously acquired the bridge from monastic ownership.

The Krämerbrücke quickly developed into the landmark of Erfurt, which it remains today. Built from sandstone, 125 meters long and 19 meters wide, its six arches have spanned two arms of the Gera River for seven centuries. Historically documented is the fact that only the finest goods were traded here, including spices, gold, silk fabrics, dyes, glasses, Venetian glass, coral, figs, raisins, rice, and licorice. Severely damaged by fire for the first time in 1472, the first houses were subsequently built on the Krämerbrücke. It was no longer just a trade center but has been continuously inhabited since then.

Almost Demolished

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Initially, there were 62 houses here, but by the 18th century, their number was reduced to the current 32 due to several more fires. Of the churches originally located at the two bridgeheads, only the Ägidienkirche remains today. The Benedictine church was demolished in 1810. In the 19th century, Erfurt developed into a large city by the standards of the time, and this circumstance almost led to the Krämerbrücke’s demise. “In 1895, there was consideration to build a larger bridge at the same location due to increasing traffic. Fortunately, many people advocated for the preservation of the bridge, so the larger Rathausbrücke was built right next to it.” A wise decision, as the structure is now, alongside the cathedral ensemble, THE landmark of the city. Of the up to 14 million day visitors annually, a large portion want to see Europe’s longest inhabited bridge.

Even today, modern Krämer can be found here, offering a wide variety of goods and services. You can get an overview on the official website or, even better, during a live walk. Those wishing to sell here must officially apply to the foundation. Curiously, “Many guests come to the tourist information directly at the Krämerbrücke and ask where the bridge is located. Due to its construction, they don’t realize they’ve already walked over it.” According to Kabisch, the best view of the structure is from the side. A great view of the monument and the city can be enjoyed from the 33-meter-high tower of the Ägidienkirche.

And of course, the people of Erfurt will especially celebrate their Krämerbrücke in 2025 with numerous events, concerts, and other festivities. The corresponding calendar can also be viewed on the website. Additionally, every year on the third weekend in June, the Krämerbrücken Festival takes place. “It is the largest old town festival in all of Thuringia. For three days, there is a celebration.” The Krämerbrücke is always freely accessible, and entry is free. But you will surely find a very special and personal souvenir here that will remind you of your visit to Europe’s longest inhabited bridge.