Hi Friends!
So far, one of my favorite spots in Krakow is only steps away from the Qubus hotel.
To cross the river to get into town, there are a few bridges, but one that really stands out. The Bernatek footbridge is truly a piece of art. Any Steemfest attendee will probably end up crossing it multiple times a day.
History of the Passerelle Père Ojca Bernatka Bridge
This footbridge opened in 2010 and straddles the Wisla River. It was built atop an abandoned road bridge that hasn’t been used since 1925.
Although the bridge was controversial while it was being built (due to the large cost), it has really helped to revitalize the two districts that it connects.
The bridge was designed by local architect Andrzej Getter and named after Father Bernatek.
It is a suspended bridge that is made without any middle beams. I guess it’s easier to get away with that when it was just a foot bridge and there will be no vehicles on it.
Both beautiful and functional, this bridge has become beloved part of the urban landscape.
History lesson from this local blog.
Gravity Defying Sculptures
This is honestly what makes the bridge so cool. It is really fun to experience either during the day or night. The whole bridge is lit up with purple lights at night though, and the sculptures are illuminated with spotlights.
I honestly have no idea how these are suspended in place. The steel statues appear to be on a thin wire. I looked more closely in broad daylight today, and cannot see any other strings attached to these sculptures. Pretty brilliant design. It definitely makes for an interesting walk along the bridge.
The sculptures were designed by Jerzy Kędziora - which were just added to the bridge in 2016.
Padlocks Are For Lovers?
One of the first things you will notice when stepping onto the bridge, are the thousands of padlocks lining the walls.
When I looked into it, apparently it is tradition for lovers to write their initials on the lock, and then throw the key in the river to signify their unending love for each other.
Not sure if it’s cute or just super cheesy.
Enjoy The Video!
I hope you guys enjoyed checking out the video of this bridge at night. Those who are coming to steemfest will be very familiar with it by the end of the trip, but I hope those who were unable to attend enjoyed checking this local attraction out.
Xo, Lea
More of my Steemy Adventures
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| The Steem Monster Show with @littlescribe and @coruscate | |
| Watch My Talk at the Steem Creators Conference |
| Support The November Minnow of the Month - @iamjadeline | |
| Learn More About Mene 24k Gold Investment Jewelry |
Ps... the awesome Steemfest3 dividers were designed by 
▶️ DTube
▶️ IPFS