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Penance Bridge (Witch's Bridge) - the most interesting viewpoint in Wrocław

Szewska 10 na Starym Mieście
50-122 Wrocław

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Interesting viewpoint in Wrocław also for children

The Witch's Bridge, also known as the Penance Bridge, is a connection between two towers of the St. Magdalene Church in the Old Town of Wrocław. From here, you can enjoy a view of the Wrocław Market Square. Children will surely be fascinated by the legend and the friendly figurines of two witches: Martynka and Tekla.

The Witch's Bridge

The bridge is located at a height of 47 meters and has always served as a viewpoint. Throughout its history, the bridge has been destroyed several times - once during a fireworks display on Emperor Wilhelm I's birthday and again at the end of World War II during the siege of Wrocław when the northern tower of the church collapsed, destroying the bridge as well. It was rebuilt in 2001.

Towers of St. Magdalene Church and the Witch's Bridge

The Penance Bridge - legend

As you walk towards the bridge, you can read the legend of a girl named Tekla - vain and lazy. One night, she was kidnapped and placed high on the bridge between the towers as punishment, where she had to sweep the bridge every night. Years passed, and when Tekla no longer had the strength to sweep the bridge, a young witch named Martynka came to her aid. One night, Martynka quietly took Tekla's broom and flew to the Wrocław Market Square. There, she met a wizard who had lost his wand. Martynka found the wand and, in return, the wizard promised to grant her one wish. Martynka asked for Tekla's freedom, and the bridge remained as a warning to lazy maidens.

According to the legend, the bridge is said to be haunted by the souls of penitent, vain girls who chose a life of fun instead of getting married, raising children, and running a household.

On the railing of the bridge, you can see charming figurines of the two witches: Martynka and Tekla.