The Old Bridge
Trøndelag
Old Town Bridge, locally known as Gamle Bybro or Bybroa, is a historic wooden bridge spanning the Nidelva River in Trondheim, Norway. Constructed between 1681 and 1685 by Johan Caspar von Cicignon as part of the city's reconstruction after a devastating fire, the bridge connected the main street Kjøpmannsgata to the charming neighborhood of Bakklandet. Originally built with wooden decking supported on three sturdy stone piers, it featured an iron gate in the center which served as a guarded city gate until 1816. Each end of the bridge had toll and guardhouses, with the west end access house still standing today. The bridge was reconstructed in 1861 by engineer Carl Adolf Dahl, preserving its historic character. It is affectionately nicknamed "Lykkens portal" or "Gate of Happiness," inspired by a popular waltz lyric written by resistance poet Kristian Oskar Hoddø during World War II while standing on the bridge. Today, Gamle Bybro remains one of Trondheim's most iconic landmarks, symbolizing the city's resilience and cultural heritage, and offers picturesque views of the river and historic Bakklandet district.
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Tip: The best time to visit Old Town Bridge is during spring and summer when the surrounding Bakklandet neighborhood is vibrant and the weather pleasant for walking. Visitors are advised to explore the nearby historic streets and consider purchasing tickets or passes for other Trondheim attractions in advance. The bridge itself is free to access and is often included in guided city tours. Evening visits offer beautiful lighting and photo opportunities. Be mindful that the bridge is pedestrian-only, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Interesting facts
- •The bridge is also known as 'Lykkens portal' or 'Gate of Happiness' after a popular waltz lyric.
- •Kristian Oskar Hoddø, a Norwegian resistance poet, wrote the famous lyric about the Nidelva River while standing on the bridge in 1940.
- •The original bridge included a guarded iron gate that served as a city gate until 1816.
- •The west end toll and guardhouse still stands today, while the east end house was removed in 1824.
- •The bridge was constructed under the patronage of King Christian V of Denmark as part of post-fire reconstruction efforts.
History
Old Town Bridge was built between 1681 and 1685 by Johan Caspar von Cicignon as part of Trondheim's reconstruction after the great fire of 1681.
It replaced the older Elgeseter Bridge, which was allowed to decay after the new bridge's completion.
The bridge originally included a guarded iron gate functioning as a city gate until 1816, with toll and guardhouses at each end.
It underwent significant reconstruction in 1861 led by engineer Carl Adolf Dahl.
Over the centuries, the bridge has maintained its strategic and cultural importance, becoming a cherished symbol of Trondheim's history.
Place Guide
West End Access House1685
The original toll and guardhouse located on the west end of the bridge, still standing and representing historical architecture from the bridge's early days.
Iron Gate Location1685
The central part of the bridge originally housed an iron gate that functioned as a guarded city gate controlling access until 1816.
Bakklandet NeighborhoodMid 17th century
The historic neighborhood connected by the bridge, known for its charming wooden houses, cobbled streets, and cultural significance as Trondheim's first suburb.
