Page 22 - Discover Curacao

THREE QUEENS: THE BRIDGES OF WILLEMSTAD

It is impossible to miss the three bridges when you take a walk through Willemstad. The three
stately bridges of Willemstad are each named after a Queen of the Netherlands.
QUEEN EMMA BRIDGE
The most eye-catching of all is named after Queen Emma, who reigned
from 1879-1890. The islanders call it the ‘Swinging Old Lady’ or the
Pontoon Bridge, for the 16 pontoons that keep it afloat. Designed by
Leonard Burlington Smith, it was completed in 1888 linking Punda with
Otrobanda. Two powerful marine engines open and close the bridge to
allow ships access to the narrow harbour. When the bridge is raised, a
ferry (or ‘ponchi’) carries pedestrians to the other side, free of charge. “

“ Go for a coffee at Restaurant De Gouverneur in Otrobanda and enjoy
the spectacular view of de Handelskade and the bridges.
”