Queen Emma Bridge

The Queen Emma Bridge (Dutch: Koningin Emmabrug) is a pontoon bridge across St. Anna Bay in Curaçao. It connects the Punda and Otrobanda quarters of the capital city, Willemstad. The bridge is hinged and opens regularly to enable the passage of oceangoing vessels. On the opposite end from the hinge is a small shelter where an operator controls two diesel engines turning propellers. The propellers are mounted perpendicular to the length of the bridge and allow it to swing parallel to the shore. The process only takes a few minutes to complete.

  • The bridge in 1955
  • The bridge, closed and with car traffic
  • The bridge, beginning to open
  • The bridge, open
Queen Emma Bridge
The bridge seen from the Otrobanda end towards Punda
Coordinates12°06′22″N 68°56′07″W
CrossesSt. Anna bay
LocaleWillemstad, Curaçao
Characteristics
DesignPontoon bridge
Total length167 m (548 feet)
Width9.80 m (32 feet)
History
Opened1888, restored 1939 and 2006
Queen Emma Bridge
Location in Curaçao

The bridge was built in 1888 and was completely renovated in 1939, 1961, 1983-1986, and 2005-2006. The lighting arches were installed in 1955, to celebrate the royal visit of Queen Juliana and Prince Bernhard.

1947, before the lighting, and showing the operator cabin

Originally a toll bridge from 1901-1934, individuals without shoes were permitted to cross the bridge without paying the toll. When the bridge swings open, two ferries spring into action to bring pedestrians across the water. The ferries are also free of charge. Motorized traffic ceased in 1974. Locally, the bridge is known as "Swinging Old Lady" as it will swing to the Otrabanda side of Willemstad.

  • Historical marker for the construction of Queen Emma Bridge
  • Historical marker for the restoration of Queen Emma Bridge
  • Queen Emma Bridge signals explanation
  • Queen Emma Bridge operator's cabin
  • View of ferry station and Queen Emma Bridge with operator's cabin on the left
  • View of Otrobanda from Queen Emma Bridge
  • View of Punda with Queen Emma Bridge
  • View of Handelskade with Queen Emma Bridge
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References
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