promenade bridge with statue Colonnade bridge and statue

The colonade bridge in Piešťany, also known as the Glass Bridge, is the longest covered bridge in Slovakia. Located in the village Piešťany, Trnava region, this bridge with statue represents the national cultural monument and is the work of architect Emil Belluš.

The bridge was designed at the request of Louis Winter, the tenant of Piešťany Spa. The goal was to create a bridge with narrow road and covered pavements with integrated shops, which would protect against weather. The initial project included a tunnel solution, which Winter refused due to lack of transparency and protection from the wind. Emíl Belluš, a solution with colonnades.

The architectonic and construction design of the bridge was responsible Prof. Emil Belluš and Prof. Grebeník. The bridge built of reinforced concrete in 1931-1933 replaced the old wooden bridge, connecting the town of Piešťany with the spa island. The load-bearing structure with seven bays and three-pole continuous beams allows for gabrit in the middle field, while the glazed paths provide protection against weather. The artistic decoration of Martin Benko designed glass with folk motifs gives the bridge aesthetic value.

The sculpture of the barlo-breaker by Robert Kühmayer, mounted on a bridge in 1933, and the etchings in glass according to Martin Benka's design, with the letters "SPIESNE DETVY" and "NA SALAŠI" add artistic elements. The inscriptions on the bridge, designed by historian Daniel Rapant, symbolize the healing power of the baths.

The bridge was destroyed in 1945 by retreating German troops and restored according to the original project in 1955-1956. Today it serves as a starting point for tourist routes.

The colonade bridge is an important part of the cultural and architectural heritage of Slovakia. Its functional modification, the combination of aesthetics with practical needs, and historical importance make it a valuable monument that it is worth visiting.