Kronprins Frederiks Bro - bridge history in Frederikssund

The story of bridges at Frederikssund goes back to 1868, when a 151-metre wooden bridge, partly supported by floating pontoons, opened across Roskilde Fjord. It was named after Crown Prince Frederik, later King Frederik VIII.

From wooden bridge to bascule bridge

As motor traffic increased during the 1920s, the wooden bridge became inadequate. Frederiksborg County decided to build a replacement in 1930, and work began in 1934. King Christian X opened the new bridge in 1935 by lowering its two lifting sections. It kept the name Kronprins Frederiks Bro, meaning Crown Prince Frederik’s Bridge.

The present bridge is approximately 215 metres long and 12.1 metres wide, with a navigation opening 30 metres across. The lifting sections allow vessels to travel between the northern and southern parts of the fjord when the bridge is operating normally.

Traces of another crossing

From 1928 until 1936, a 300-metre railway bridge stood south of the road bridge. It carried the Mid-Zealand Railway from Hornsherred towards Slangerup, Hillerød and Helsingør. After the line closed, the railway bridge was moved to Aalborg, where it became part of the railway crossing over the Limfjord. Traces of the old piers and embankments remain at Frederikssund.

At the Hornsherred end of the road bridge, Frederikssund Museum Færgegården explores local history and culture.

Plan your passage

Repairs can affect road traffic and bridge openings. Check the Danish Road Directorate’s information about the bridge works before travelling or sailing through. The existing bridge-watch contact is +45 72 44 72 42 or VHF channel 16; confirm current navigation information when planning your trip.