The Rondje Bruggen Oost route starts right here in the Plantage neighborhood, at the remarkable Nijlpaardenbrug (Hippopotamus Bridge) across the Entrepotdok. This drawbridge, built in 1987, was designed by Dirk Sterenberg, who even reused parts from other bridges. It connects the Plantage to the Eastern Islands via a scenic walking and cycling route.
Why the name Nijlpaardenbrug? Once upon a time, real hippos were unloaded from a ship at the Entrepotdok and walked across the bridge on their way to ARTIS Zoo. That’s how the bridge got its name – although the planned granite hippo sculpture was never realized. Nearby, you’ll also find other “animal bridges” such as the Donkey Bridge, the White Cat Bridge, and the Zebra Bridge.
🚴 With the audio tour from Aan de Amsterdamse Grachten, you can cycle from the Nijlpaardenbrug past 11 iconic bridges in Oost, including the Python Bridge and the Berlage Bridge.
There’s also a Rondje Bruggen West, taking you past 11 other bridges, from De Kom to the famous Torensluis and the Koekjesbrug in the city center.
Pump up your tires and charge your phone… It’s time for a bridge tour!
image: Cees Camel