emma bridge

Photos from own collection 

Yesterday for about an hour we were on the Emma Bridge, enjoying the view, the subtle movements and the wonderful feeling of being on the bridge when it opens and closes.

The Emma Bridge, built in 1888 by Leonard Burlington Smith, and named after Queen Emma (1890–1898), this bridge connects the Punda and Otrobanda districts in Curacao.

The 16 floating pontoon boats support the “Pontoon Bridge.” Also known as the “Swinging Old Lady,” it swings open using two powerful ship motors, allowing ships to access the port. From 1901 to 1934, people had to pay a toll to cross the bridge, with the exception of pedestrians going barefoot.