Turku Bridge in Viipuri
The bridge now known as Linnansilta (Turun silta in old Finnish) has been an essential connection across Linnasalmi Strait, linking Viipuri’s city center with Linnasaari and the iconic Viipuri Castle. Its historical name, Turku Bridge, likely originates from its role in the Suuri Rantatie, the Great Coastal Road that stretched between Turku and Viipuri.
The earliest versions of the bridge date back to the 17th century when a wooden structure was built to connect the mainland to the castle. Over the years, the bridge underwent multiple reconstructions, including a drawbridge built in 1856 to coincide with the opening of the Saimaa Canal and a manually operated swing bridge introduced in 1895 to accommodate increased ship traffic.
This intriguing photograph offers a glimpse into daily life at the time. Soldiers march in formation, carts loaded with goods cross the bridge, and townsfolk gather in small groups. Onlookers sit along the edges, watching the movements of people and carts. Perhaps it was a market day?
In the background, we see a mix of old fortifications and more modern buildings, highlighting the historical significance of the area. Each small vignette captured in this photograph tells a story of a moment in time, offering a rich tapestry of Viipuri's vibrant past.
Original Photograph
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Digitally Restored Photograph
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Photo Information
Original photo courtesy of the Finnish Heritage Agency
Photographer: Daniel Nyblin
Year: 1890
Link to original photo here
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