Behind the Berlin Pannen Bridge, a period of 17 years of confinement and a subsequent 2 years of reconstruction has unfolded.
In the heart of Berlin, the historic Lion Bridge in Tiergarten park has finally reopened after a 17-year closure. The bridge, the oldest suspension bridge in Germany, was built in 1838 and has undergone a comprehensive renovation.
The closure of the Lion Bridge in 2008 was due to the wood becoming too rotten and unsafe, leading to its full dismantling in 2015. The delay in its renovation or rebuilding appears linked to the complexities involved in restoring or reconstructing the aging bridge, along with structural safety concerns.
The renovation project included the restoration of the bridge's four gold-yellow lion sculptures, which now shine brightly once again. The renovation cost a total of 2.6 million euros, a significant increase from the initial estimated budget of 700,000 euros in 2022.
The reopening of the Lion Bridge in 2025 is likely a record for the longest time between closure and reopening in Berlin. This lengthy closure pales in comparison to the 14-year rebuilding process of the Berlin Brandenburg Airport and the 7-year rebuilding of the City Palace (Humboldt Forum).
Despite the delays, the renovated Lion Bridge maintains its historical charm and beauty. The lion sculptures have been repainted in their original 1838 colour, ensuring that the bridge remains a testament to Berlin's rich history.
As the Lion Bridge stands proudly once again, it serves as a reminder of the city's resilience and commitment to preserving its heritage. The bridge, with its four gold-yellow lion sculptures, is now open for visitors to enjoy, offering a unique perspective of Berlin's Tiergarten park.
[1] Source: Die Welt newspaper
The historic Lion Bridge, a significant addition to the home-and-garden landscape of Berlin's Tiergarten park, has been revitalized after a 17-year hiatus, providing residents and visitors alike with a lifestyle amenity that showcases the city's commitment to preserving its past. The renovated bridge, with its meticulously restored gold-yellow lion sculptures, stands as a proud testament to Berlin's history and the revival of its heritage.
The extended closure and restoration process of the Lion Bridge, although lengthy, places it among the city's notable reconstruction projects, such as the Berlin Brandenburg Airport and the City Palace (Humboldt Forum), thereby emphasizing Berlin's resilience and dedication to maintaining its cultural heritage.
