Glienicke Bridge Guide
Glienicke Bridge: The Bridge of Spies - Where History Whispers Guide
Welcome to the Glienicke Bridge, an iconic landmark straddling the Havel River between Berlin and Potsdam. More than just a pretty bridge, this is a place steeped in Cold War history, a silent witness to some of the most dramatic exchanges of spies between East and West. Come walk in the footsteps of history and feel the weight of the past as you gaze across the water. The Glienicke Bridge earned its nickname, "Bridge of Spies," during the Cold War when it was used for several high-profile prisoner exchanges between the Soviet Union and the United States. The most famous of these exchanges involved Soviet spy Rudolf Abel and American U-2 pilot Gary Powers in 1962. Built in 1907, the bridge replaced an older wooden structure and served as a vital transportation link. After being damaged in World War II, it was rebuilt and became a symbol of division during the Cold War era. Today, the Glienicke Bridge is a popular tourist destination. Visitors can stroll across the bridge, taking in the scenic views of the Havel River and the surrounding landscape. Informational plaques along the bridge provide historical context and recount the stories of the spy exchanges. Consider taking a guided tour to delve deeper into the bridge's history and the events that unfolded here. While there isn't a specific culinary tradition directly linked to the bridge, nearby Potsdam offers a variety of restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy traditional German cuisine.
Transportation
From Potsdam Central Station (Hauptbahnhof), take bus 694 towards Glienicke/Nordbahn. Get off at the 'Glienicker Brücke' stop. Alternatively, you can take tram 93 towards Glienicke/Nordbahn and get off at the same stop. From Berlin, take the S-Bahn S1 or S7 to Wannsee station, then bus 316 to 'Glienicker Brücke'.