The Queen Emma Bridge - Swinging Old Lady
The Queen Emma Bridge is a pontoon bridge across the St.Anna Bay in Curaçao. It connects the Punda and Otrobanda parts of the capital, Willemstad. Originally built in 1888, it was hailed as one of the modern wonders in Curaçao. People of all nationalities watched in amazement as the bridge would swing open to allow passage to ships. As a toll bridge, it would allow pedestrians and even cars to cross from one side to the other. With the arrival of the iconic Queen Juliana Bridge, cars no longer needed to cross the Queen Emma Bridge and only pedestrians are now allowed on it. Recently renovated, the Queen Emma Bridge is a wonderful attraction both for locals and tourists alike. A toll is no longer applied and when the bridge swings open, two ferries make sure to bring pedestrians across the waters. The ferries are also free of charge.
Be sure to cross the Queen Emma Bridge and learn why they call her the swinging old lady!
Be sure to cross the Queen Emma Bridge and learn why they call her the swinging old lady!
Five things to know about our Queen Emma Bridge:
1. The Queen Emma Bridge was conceived and built by US Consul, Leonard B.Smith. The pontoons were fashioned in Maine and transported to Curaçao, where the rest was constructed. The Queen Emma Bridge was inaugurated on the 8th of May, 1888.
2. The Queen Emma Bridge consists of sixteen pontoon boats and swings open laterally to allow ships to enter and leave the St.Anna Bay. Affectionately nicknamed the “Swinging Old Lady,” Queen Emma Bridge is one of the oldest and longest non-military pontoon bridges in the world.
3. The Queen Emma Bridge is hinged and opens regularly to enable the passage of oceangoing vessels. On the opposite end from the hinge is a small shelter where an operator controls two diesel engines turning propellers. The propellers are mounted perpendicular to the length of the bridge and allow it to swing parallel to the shore. The process only takes a few minutes to complete.
4. It’s a strange sensation to be on the bridge as it opens. Even when the bridge isn’t opening, it’s not stationary. As you might expect, a floating bridge moves with the water and, on a turbulent day, everyone walking across appears to be totally drunk. And if you are totally drunk, well, good luck :)
5. Locals and travelers alike enjoy having a meal or coffee, while marveling at boats sailing through the open arm of the bridge - especially when it's lit up at night. And don't worry if you get caught on the wrong side when the bridge swings open — a ferry will get you back across the bay at no charge.
2. The Queen Emma Bridge consists of sixteen pontoon boats and swings open laterally to allow ships to enter and leave the St.Anna Bay. Affectionately nicknamed the “Swinging Old Lady,” Queen Emma Bridge is one of the oldest and longest non-military pontoon bridges in the world.
3. The Queen Emma Bridge is hinged and opens regularly to enable the passage of oceangoing vessels. On the opposite end from the hinge is a small shelter where an operator controls two diesel engines turning propellers. The propellers are mounted perpendicular to the length of the bridge and allow it to swing parallel to the shore. The process only takes a few minutes to complete.
4. It’s a strange sensation to be on the bridge as it opens. Even when the bridge isn’t opening, it’s not stationary. As you might expect, a floating bridge moves with the water and, on a turbulent day, everyone walking across appears to be totally drunk. And if you are totally drunk, well, good luck :)
5. Locals and travelers alike enjoy having a meal or coffee, while marveling at boats sailing through the open arm of the bridge - especially when it's lit up at night. And don't worry if you get caught on the wrong side when the bridge swings open — a ferry will get you back across the bay at no charge.
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