The Danube’s exceptionally low water level has revealed the remains of Budapest’s original Franz Joseph Bridge, offering a rare and striking glimpse into the city’s wartime past.

According to Falanszter, at the Liberty Bridge, visitors looking down into the river can once again spot structural elements of the bridge that collapsed into the Danube during the Second World War. The same remains last became visible during the record-low water levels of 2018.

A bridge with imperial origins and a wartime fate

The original bridge, officially named the Franz Joseph Bridge, was inaugurated on 4 October 1896 in the presence of Emperor Franz Joseph I, who famously drove the final ceremonial rivet into the structure himself, HVG writes. Tram services began crossing the bridge two years later.

During the Siege of Budapest in January 1945, retreating German forces destroyed the bridge to slow the advancing Soviet army. The central span collapsed into the Danube, where parts of the structure have remained ever since.

Following the war, the crossing became the first of Budapest’s destroyed Danube bridges to be rebuilt. It reopened on 20 August 1946 under its current name, the Liberty Bridge.

Many hotel boats stranded on the Danube because of low water levels

Low water levels continue to expose hidden history

The emergence of the bridge remains is the latest consequence of the Danube’s historically low water level, driven by prolonged drought and extreme heat.

Just last week, the low river level also exposed a Second World War explosive device near the central pier of Margaret Bridge. It was safely removed by Hungarian military bomb disposal experts.

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Experts have also warned that the falling river is creating heritage protection risks. As archaeological and historical objects become exposed, authorities are urging people not to move, collect or remove any artefacts they may discover along the riverbed.

In addition to their historical significance, some newly exposed sections of the riverbed are part of Budapest’s protected drinking water base, prompting officials to advise visitors to remain cautious when exploring the shoreline.

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