Devil's Bridge in Kraków

The Devil's Bridge (Diabelski Most) is a historic road viaduct in Zwierzyniec, at the junction of ul. Malczewskiego and al. Waszyngtona. It was built by Austrian military engineers as part of the Kraków Fortress.

Why it was built

The viaduct provided a grade-separated crossing between the road to Fort Kościuszko and the lateral military road, today ul. Malczewskiego. The road to the fort was laid on an embankment about 4 metres high. The bridge, of limestone blocks and brick, was built in 1855-1870 and is entered in the heritage register (A-793, 1988). In 2010 a general renovation was carried out: retaining walls, a brick vault, balustrades and water drainage were rebuilt.

Origin of the name

According to legend the devil Kusy appeared here at night, supposedly running in from the direction of Błonia.

Practical information

• Location: the junction of ul. Malczewskiego and al. Waszyngtona, Zwierzyniec.
• The bridge is viewed from the street. Close by is the Kościuszko Mound, about 600 m away.