The architecture of the hacker bridge: A monument of the Gründerzeit (founding era)
The hacker bridge is a seven-span iron construction, a technical monument of the late Bavarian engineering. The system of long’s bar, with the delicate arches of welding iron, the tensile forces of the roadway. So it is a static high efficient Bow truss.
The Hackerbrücke is not simply a bridge; it is an extraordinary structure from the late Gründerzeit period (built 1890–1894) and an outstanding example of the functional engineering architecture of that era. The bridge’s design is inextricably linked to the technological possibilities of the late 19th century, when steel became the dominant building material.
Riveted timber frame construction: The heart of the project
The most fascinating aspect of the Hackerbrücke is its construction: it’s a riveted steel arch bridge with a truss structure . This means that the entire supporting structure consists of a grid of steel profiles, not welded, but meticulously and precisely
joined by thousands of rivets. This riveting technique was typical of the pre-electrical welding era and testifies to immense craftsmanship and precision. This open, skeletal structure is extremely material-efficient while simultaneously boasting high load-bearing capacity. The entire bridge spans the 26 tracks of the main train station with
six striking, gently curved steel arches, each with a span of up to 28 meters.
Aesthetics and design features
The bridge’s aesthetic follows the principle of form follows function. Functionalism is paramount, but is visually enhanced by the dynamic lines of the arches. A distinctive design feature is the two-tiered traffic level : the wider roadway for motorized traffic lies above, while the pedestrian and cycle paths are positioned slightly lower on laterally projecting (cantilevered = projecting laterally) supports. This arrangement visually separates pedestrians from car traffic and creates the
characteristic “canal view” through the arches to the seemingly endless network of railway tracks below – a unique urban spectacle, especially at sunset.
Conservation and the future plan
Since the entire structure is a listed building, the urgent renovation measures starting in 2027 aim to preserve the original fabric. The bridge has suffered from corrosion over the years. The goal is to restore its original load-bearing capacity and secure the structure for the future. As part of this renovation, new accent lighting is also planned, designed to showcase the architecture of the riveted arches as an architectural highlight of Munich, even at night. –> Interesting facts about the Hackerbrücke renovation
Related Links:
- All information about the hacker bridge
- is the Hackerbrücke worth it?
- close to ZOB München