The Magere Brug is more than just a bridge. It has become a symbol of Amsterdam. Every year, it is photographed thousands of times, features in films and is on the must-see list of virtually every visitor keen to explore the city.
The history of the Magere Brug dates back to the seventeenth century. During Amsterdam’s major urban expansion, a crossing over the River Amstel was planned for this site. Originally, the intention was to build a monumental stone bridge, but economic setbacks following the Disaster Year of 1672 rendered that plan unfeasible. In the end, a much simpler wooden bridge was chosen. The first bridge on this site was built around 1691 and was previously known as the Kerkstraatbrug. However, it soon acquired a different name – one that would eventually become far better known than its official designation.
There are countless stories about the origin of the name. The best-known story concerns two sisters from the Mager family who are said to have lived on either side of the Amstel. They are said to have had the bridge built so that they could visit each other more easily. The reality turns out to be simpler. Historical research suggests that the original bridge was exceptionally narrow. As there was insufficient funding for the larger stone bridge that had originally been planned, a much narrower wooden version was constructed instead. It was this ‘meagre’ design that gave the bridge its name.
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At Q-Park Prins & Keizer, you can park from €37.50 per day. Book your parking space online in advance to be guaranteed a space. You can easily drive in and out using your number plate, so there’s no need to stop at the payment machine.