Queen Emma Bridge
Curacao
The Queen Emma Bridge, locally known as the "Swinging Old Lady," is a remarkable pontoon bridge spanning St. Anna Bay in Willemstad, Curaçao. Built in 1888, it connects the historic districts of Punda and Otrobanda and is the only floating wooden swing bridge of its kind worldwide, resting on sixteen pontoons. The bridge swings open regularly to allow oceangoing vessels to pass, operated by a small cabin housing diesel engines that turn propellers to rotate the bridge parallel to the shore, a process that takes only a few minutes. Originally a toll bridge, it allowed barefoot pedestrians to cross free of charge, reflecting its community role. Since 1974, it has been pedestrian-only after vehicle traffic was redirected to the Queen Juliana Bridge. The bridge has undergone several renovations, notably in 1939, 1961, the mid-1980s, and a major restoration in 2005-2006 funded by the European Union. Its wooden structure was largely replaced, preserving the original pontoons, and it features iconic lighting arches installed in 1955 in honor of a royal visit. Today, it remains a beloved cultural landmark and vital pedestrian link, complemented by free ferry services when the bridge is open.
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Tip: Visit the Queen Emma Bridge during daylight to witness its swinging operation and enjoy panoramic views of Willemstad's historic districts. The bridge opens frequently for ship passage, so plan to cross when closed for uninterrupted walking. Ferries operate free of charge when the bridge is open, providing convenient alternatives. Avoid peak midday heat by visiting in the morning or late afternoon. No vehicle traffic is allowed, so wear comfortable shoes for walking. Advance tickets are not required as access is free.
Interesting facts
- •The Queen Emma Bridge is the only floating wooden swing bridge in the world, resting on sixteen pontoons.
- •Locally nicknamed the "Swinging Old Lady" due to its swinging opening mechanism.
- •From 1901 to 1934, barefoot individuals were allowed to cross without paying the toll, highlighting social considerations.
- •The bridge's lighting arches were installed in 1955 to celebrate the royal visit of Queen Juliana and Prince Bernhard.
- •When the bridge swings open, free ferries operate nearby to transport pedestrians across the bay.
History
Constructed in 1888, the Queen Emma Bridge was initially a toll bridge, with a compassionate policy allowing barefoot pedestrians to cross for free.
It was completely renovated in 1939 due to increased traffic and again multiple times throughout the 20th century, including significant restorations in 1961 and the 1980s.
The bridge ceased to carry vehicle traffic in 1974 after the opening of the Queen Juliana Bridge.
By the early 21st century, severe deterioration prompted a comprehensive restoration from 2005 to 2006, funded by the European Union, which replaced most of the wooden structure while retaining the original pontoons.
The bridge's lighting arches, added in 1955, commemorate a royal visit by Queen Juliana and Prince Bernhard.
Place Guide
Operator's Cabin
A small shelter located at the Otrobanda end of the bridge where an operator controls the diesel engines that power the propellers to swing the bridge open and closed.
Lighting Arches1955
Iconic arches installed in 1955 to commemorate the royal visit by Queen Juliana and Prince Bernhard, adding a distinctive visual element to the bridge.
Pontoons1888 (original)
Sixteen pontoons support the entire bridge structure, allowing it to float and swing open to permit ship passage.
