Erasmusbridge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids ErasmusbridgeErasmusbrug |
|
|---|---|
The Erasmusbridge in Rotterdam
|
|
| Locale | Rotterdam,  The Netherlands |
| Characteristics | |
| Material | Steel |
| Total length | 802-metre-long (2,631 ft) |
| Width | 338-metre-wide (1,109 ft) |
| Height | 139-metre-high (456 ft) |
| History | |
| Designer | Ben van Berkel |
| Construction end | 1996 |
| Construction cost | 165.000.000 Guilder |
The Erasmusbridge is a famous bridge in the city of Rotterdam, Netherlands. It is a very important landmark. This amazing bridge connects the northern and southern parts of Rotterdam. It helps people and traffic move easily across the Maas river.
Contents
The Amazing Erasmusbridge
The Erasmusbridge is one of the most well-known bridges in the Netherlands. It was the second bridge built over the Maas river in Rotterdam. This modern bridge is a symbol of the city.
Why is it Called the Erasmusbridge?
The bridge is named after a very famous person from Rotterdam. His name was Desiderius Erasmus. He was a very important scholar and philosopher who lived a long time ago. He was born in Rotterdam.
Who Designed This Cool Bridge?
The Erasmusbridge was designed by a talented architect named Ben van Berkel. His design is very unique and modern. It makes the bridge look like a giant swan.
How Big is the Erasmusbridge?
This bridge is really big! It is a type of bridge called a Cable-stayed bridge. This means it uses strong cables to hold up the main part of the bridge.
- The bridge is 802 metres (2,631 ft) (about 2,631 feet) long.
- Its tallest point is 139 metres (456 ft) (about 456 feet) high. That's taller than many skyscrapers!
A Bridge That Lifts!
One of the coolest things about the Erasmusbridge is a special part of it. This part is called a bascule Bridge. A bascule bridge can lift up to let large ships pass underneath.
- The bascule bridge section is 89 metres (292 ft) (about 292 feet) long.
- It is the biggest and heaviest bascule bridge in all of Europe!
Fun Facts and Events
The Erasmusbridge is not just for crossing the river. It has also been used for many exciting events!
- It was part of the famous 2010 Tour de France cycling race.
- The bridge is also a key part of the Rotterdam Marathon route.
- It plays a big role in the annual World Port Days celebrations.
