Spreuer Bridge

Remarkable Landmarks and Must-Visit Sights

Spreuer Bridge

Step back in time as you stroll across the Spreuer Bridge, a masterpiece of medieval architecture dating back to 1408. This iconic bridge not only connects Mühlenplatz with Pfistergasse but also serves as a canvas for the captivating Danse Macabre paintings by Kaspar Meglinger. These artworks, rich in historical significance, invite you to ponder the universal theme of mortality while enjoying the serene beauty of Lucerne's landscape.

Dance of Death Paintings

Prepare to be mesmerized by the Dance of Death paintings that adorn the Spreuer Bridge. With over sixty intricate triangular artworks, this series by Caspar Meglinger offers a vivid portrayal of the medieval fascination with mortality. Each painting, featuring Death as a skeleton, is a unique narrative enriched with family coat of arms, providing a fascinating glimpse into the cultural and historical tapestry of the era.

Guided Tour

Enhance your visit to Lucerne with a guided tour that brings history to life. Led by an actress and accompanied by an audio guide, this immersive experience begins at the History Museum and takes you through the enchanting Spreuer Bridge and Mühlenplatz. Delve into the stories behind the Danse Macabre paintings and uncover the rich historical context that makes this journey through time both educational and unforgettable.

Culture and History

Spreuer Bridge is a Cultural Property of National Significance in Switzerland, known for its unique role in Lucerne's medieval milling industry. It was the only bridge where chaff and leaves could be discarded into the river, a practice that inspired its name. The bridge's historical journey includes a reconstruction after a flood in 1566. The 'Dance of Death' series on the bridge reflects societal concerns of the early 17th century, offering a glimpse into the mindset of a time when Switzerland faced war and pestilence.

Artistic Heritage

Inside the Spreuer Bridge, you'll find 45 surviving paintings from the original 67, forming the largest known Danse Macabre cycle. These artworks, adorned with coats of arms and portraits of donors, provide a fascinating insight into Lucerne's societal structure during the 17th century. The triangular paintings are cleverly placed in the eaves, presenting both preservation and photographic challenges, which adds to their allure and authenticity.

Historical Landmarks

As one of Lucerne's oldest wooden bridges, the Spreuer Bridge is a historical landmark that offers a window into the city's past and the daily life of its medieval inhabitants. Its architectural design and the themes of mortality and spirituality depicted in its paintings make it a cultural gem of the Middle Ages.