It is the second-largest brick bridge in the world, surpassed only by the nearby Göltzschtalbrücke.
The structure consists of a total of 60 arches arranged across two distinct levels.
Construction commenced in 1846 and was completed in just five years using local materials.
The bridge's foundation is built on heavy masonry to withstand the shifting soil of the Elster valley.
It remains one of the oldest railway bridges in Germany that is still in daily operation for modern rail traffic.
The Elstertalbrücke is a massive multi-story brick railway viaduct crossing the Elster River valley near Plauen, Germany. Completed in 1851, the structure is a primary example of 19th-century civil engineering, featuring two tiers of arches designed to support the Leipzig-Hof railway line. It measures approximately 279 meters in length and reaches a height of 68 meters above the valley floor. The construction required over 12 million bricks, reflecting the regional industrial history of the Vogtland area. The bridge remains an active rail connection, currently serving regional trains connecting Plauen to surrounding towns. It is designated as a protected cultural heritage site due to its architectural significance in early German railway infrastructure.
From the valley floor looking upward, or from the designated hiking path on the western slope.
Walk the trail leading into the valley floor for an upward perspective of the arch symmetry.
Bring binoculars if you enjoy train spotting, as it remains an active line.
Visit during the golden hour to capture the texture of the brickwork in soft lighting.
Attempting to climb the bridge structure or trespassing on the railway tracks.
