IMG_4026

Thu, 19 Feb 2009 20:03:36 +0100

The Saint Servaas Bridge. The Romans built a walled settlement in the fourth century in order to protect a bridge, which was located a little south of here. They named this settlement 'Mosae Trajectum' (crossing place for the Maas), which developed into Maastricht. Maastricht thus claims to be the oldest city in the Netherlands, but it's disputed. In any case, after the Roman bridge fell into disuse, a wooden bridge was built here. This bridge collapsed in 1275 and construction of this bridge began in 1280-89. Originally there were 9 arches of stone and one of wood on the far side (easily destroyed to keep folks out). Until the 19th century this was the only link between the two parts of the city on either side of the river.