Buried deep beneath the concrete jungle of Berlin there is a legend that few people doubt but many choose to ignore. This story is crowned with the magnificent Moltke Bridge, which has been a perfect bridge between colourful districts of Moabit and Tiergarten. However, this does not make it just another bridge of incredible architectural design, saying nothing of a dragon, which is believed to be the guardian of the structure.
The Legendary Beginnings
Legends of the site indicate that the Moltke Bridge was constructed in the latter part of the nineteenth century in memory of Field Marshal Helmuth von Moltke, better known as thefounder of the Prussian general staff. Moltke himself once professed faith in dragons and after achieving his purpose of designing the Great Black Bridge, it was his dream to impart part of this mythical creature into the bridge’s construction.
The Dragon’s Symbolism
The dragon was an animal associated with power, knowledge and guardian function of the people of Berlin; thus, the bridge was to serve similar role. The dragon’s body is made of scales coiled around pillars of the bridge that connects the neighborhoods; thus it unites them.
The Architectural Marvel
This Moltke Bridge was the project of the famous architect Friedrich Hitzig and is possibly one of the best examples of Berlin’s historic structures. It has a pretty stone arch which encircles a courtyard, and the carvings of the dragons are amazing for any one who may catch a glimpse of it.
Unveiling the Dragon
When you are near the Moltke Bridge, the first thing that you are going to see is the dragon part of the whole picture that is simply magnificent. The impressive sculpture of the creature is well done with fine finishing, that testify of the talents of workers engaged in the making of the art. For its eyes or nose to its wings, the dragon seems prepared to fly at any given time.
Symbolic Features
There is symbolism in every part of the dragon sculpture. An open mouth of the lion also has their symbolic meaning – protection and safeguarding the city recalls the construction of the bridge. The body scales are symbols of the community of Berlin carved into the dragon’s skin.
The Legend Lives On
Despite having started out as a sculpture the Moltke Bridge dragon is now not only recognised as an artwork but as a part of popular culture in Berlin. Residents and visitors come to enjoy the wonderful views, and they surrender to the enchanting stories connected with it.
Dragon Festivals
During festivities, there are usual fairs held at the vicinity of the Moltke Bridge where the dragon has a important place in the legends and myths of the country. These festivals feature dance, music, drama, art and food related to Dragons in a way to entertain and engage everyone young and old.
Souvenirs and Keepsakes
For those who want to bring a piece of dragon legend home, there are huge varieties of items such as T-shirts, key chains and paintings, which are available in the local market. There are beautifully crafted dragon figures for home decoration; dragon shaped key chains and other such trinkets let the spirit of the dragon live on.
Conclusion
The fabulously sculpted dragon on the Moltke Bridge in Berlin actually is not only a source of mystical power but is representative of unity and protection amid strength. While crossing the bridge look at the carving and iron work and also the story associated with this bridge. Besides the fact that combining art and folklore already makes any city magical, Berlin is that much more special with this addition.
