Moerputten Bridge
Noord-Brabant
The Moerputten Bridge, originally a railway bridge constructed between 1881 and 1887, is located in North Brabant, Netherlands, spanning the peat lake Lange Putten within the Moerputten nature reserve. It was part of the Langstraat Railway line, nicknamed the "Halvezolenlijntje" due to the many shoe factories along the route. The bridge features 35 wide brick pillars designed to support a potential second railway track, although the line remained single-tracked until its closure in 1972. After the railway line was decommissioned, the bridge fell into disrepair and was threatened with demolition. However, it was declared a national monument in 1995 and subsequently purchased by Staatsbosbeheer in 1997. A major restoration project began in 2004 to halt environmental contamination from peeling lead paint and to preserve the structure. The iron bridge parts were cleaned and repainted in their original ochre color, and the brick pillars were carefully restored, preserving unique wall flora. Since its reopening in 2011, the Moerputten Bridge serves as a pedestrian bridge and forms part of a scenic walking route through the Moerputten nature area, offering visitors a unique combination of industrial heritage and natural beauty.
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Tip: Visit the Moerputten Bridge during spring or early summer to enjoy the lush natural surroundings and birdlife in the Moerputten nature reserve. It is advisable to wear comfortable walking shoes as the bridge is part of a hiking trail. No entrance fee is required, and visiting on weekdays or outside peak hours ensures a quieter experience. Check local Staatsbosbeheer information for any route updates or guided walks. Advance reservations are not necessary.
Interesting facts
- •The bridge's 35 brick pillars were built wide enough to support a second railway track, which was never added.
- •The Langstraat Railway was nicknamed 'Halvezolenlijntje' referring to the many shoe factories along its route.
- •During restoration, over 13 tons of old paint and tar were removed from the iron bridge parts.
- •The bridge was declared a national monument in 1995, protecting it from demolition.
- •Unique wall plants growing in the masonry joints were preserved during restoration.
History
The Moerputten Bridge was constructed from late 1881 until 1887 as part of the Langstraat Railway line connecting 's-Hertogenbosch to Lage Zwaluwe, serving the shoe industry in the Langstraat region.
Although designed to allow for a second track, the line remained single-tracked until it closed in 1972.
After closure, the bridge deteriorated and was nearly demolished but was protected as a national monument in 1995.
Staatsbosbeheer acquired the bridge in 1997 and initiated a multi-phase restoration beginning in 2004, including removal of toxic lead paint and masonry repairs.
The bridge was fully reopened for pedestrian use in 2011, preserving an important piece of industrial and regional heritage.
Place Guide
Brick Pillars1881-1887
Thirty-five broad brick pillars support the bridge, originally constructed to allow for a second railway track. These pillars are a key architectural feature demonstrating 19th-century engineering foresight.
Iron Bridge Sections1881-1887
The 36 wrought iron bridge sections were restored by removing old layers of paint and tar, then repainted in the original ochre color. These sections form the visible superstructure of the bridge.
Moerputten Nature Reserve Walk
The bridge is part of a walking route through the Moerputten nature reserve, offering scenic views of peat lakes and rich birdlife, blending industrial heritage with natural beauty.
