The bridge is named after Archduchess Marie Valerie of Austria, the daughter of Emperor Franz Joseph I.
During its long period of destruction, the bridge was locally referred to as the 'Broken Bridge,' with only the piers remaining visible in the water.
The reconstruction project was a joint financial effort between Hungary and Slovakia, aided by European Union PHARE funding.
The bridge serves as a physical border crossing point between Hungary and Slovakia, both of which are Schengen Area countries.
The central span of the bridge is 119 meters long.
The bridge features a specific plaque commemorating the international cooperation required for its 2001 restoration.
The Mária Valéria Bridge spans the Danube River, directly connecting the Hungarian city of Esztergom to the Slovakian town of Štúrovo. Designed by János Feketeházy and completed in 1895, the bridge features a 518-meter-long steel truss construction. It was destroyed during World War II and remained in ruins for nearly six decades before being rebuilt and reopened in 2001. The bridge serves as a significant border crossing, allowing pedestrians to traverse between two countries in minutes. It offers clear views of the Esztergom Basilica, the largest church in Hungary, situated on a hill directly overlooking the river. The structure consists of five spans with a central support system designed to withstand ice flows on the Danube. It functions as part of the primary road network linking the two nations while maintaining a dedicated walkway for visitors.
The middle of the bridge, facing the Esztergom side, for a full frame shot of the Basilica.
Carry a valid passport or national identity card, as you are crossing an international border.
Visit the Slovakian side (Štúrovo) to find different local viewpoints of the Esztergom Basilica.
The bridge can be very windy due to its open design over the river, so bring appropriate layers.
Do not assume you are only within Hungarian territory; be prepared for potential border checks or local regulatory differences on the Slovakian side.
