Halen Bridge

Halenbrücke is a concrete arch bridge spanning the Aare on the northern edge of Bern, linking the city with the municipality of Kirchlindach in the canton of Bern, Switzerland. It sits close to the Bremgartenwald forest and the Halen housing estate, and its height and slender profile make it one of the best-known bridges around the Swiss capital.

Why does this bridge matter?

The structure is 234 m long and rises about 38 m above the river. Its centrepiece is a parabolic arch over the Aare channel. When it was finished, it had the longest span of any concrete bridge in Switzerland, and Swiss heritage inventories describe it as a pioneering piece of exposed-concrete engineering. It is classed as a cultural property of national significance and appears in both the KGS register and the IVS inventory of historic transport routes.

How was it built?

Ideas for a better link between the communities north of Bern go back to the 1840s. The project finally took shape after a competition launched in 1908 by a private initiative committee. The winner was a design by engineer Jakob Bolliger, submitted by the Zurich firm Müller, Zeerleder & Gobat. Work started in 1911 and the bridge opened on 13 September 1913. It replaced the Neubrügg, a covered wooden bridge from 1469 that had itself taken over from a ferry.

Between 1968 and 1970 the deck was widened and the concrete parapets gave way to steel railings. A full renovation, with partial demolition and reconstruction, followed in 1992-93.

What can you see there?

The best views of the arch are from the banks of the Aare and from paths nearby, where it stands out against the wooded valley slopes. From the roadway you look down into the river gorge and the surrounding forest. The area is green and quiet, suited to a short walk. The canton is also running a river restoration project on the stretch between the Felsenau and Halen bridges.

How do you get to Halenbrücke?

The bridge lies a few kilometres north of central Bern, at roughly 46.971 N, 7.418 E. You can drive from Bern towards Kirchlindach, or take local public transport towards Kirchlindach or the Halen estate. Check stops and timetables in the SBB or Bernmobil apps. The bridge can be crossed on foot or by bike.

When is the best time to visit?

In spring and summer the forest around the bridge is a deep green, while autumn colours the Aare valley. For photos, aim for side light in the morning or late afternoon.

Frequently asked questions

When was Halenbrücke built?

Construction began in 1911 and the bridge opened on 13 September 1913.

How long and how high is it?

It is 234 m long and stands about 38 m above the river.

What does it connect?

It links Bern with Kirchlindach on the far side of the Aare valley.

Is it a listed monument?

Yes. It is a cultural property of national significance, recorded in the KGS and IVS inventories.