Bridge Number 5, also known as Joes Kloppenburgbrug, is a notable plate bridge located in Amsterdam Center, Netherlands. It serves as a vital connection between Raamsteeg and Oude Spiegelstraat, spanning over the iconic Singel canal. The bridge’s historical and cultural significance has been officially recognized, as it was designated a municipal monument on October 10, 1995.
Originally, the bridge was nameless, but informally referred to as the “Raambrug” due to its proximity to Raamsteeg. Additionally, it was also known as the “Appelmarktbrug” or “Appelmarktsluis,” inspired by the nearby apple market that was once held in the vicinity.
However, on July 5, 2016, the bridge was officially named after Joes Kloppenburg, a young man whose life was tragically cut short on August 17, 1996, as a victim of senseless violence in Voetboogstraat, which is not far from the bridge’s location. The decision to name the bridge after Joes Kloppenburg was made as a poignant symbol against senseless violence, aiming to raise awareness and promote a safer and more compassionate community.
After the official naming, the nameplate commemorating Joes Kloppenburg was affixed to the bridge on September 26, 2017. This act further solidified the bridge’s significance as a reminder of the importance of addressing and preventing senseless violence in society.
Joes Kloppenburgbrug now stands not only as a practical infrastructure element connecting two streets over the Singel canal but also as a symbolic tribute to a life lost too soon. It serves as a poignant reminder to visitors and locals alike of the impact that senseless violence can have on individuals and communities. The bridge’s story is one that encourages empathy, compassion, and the continuous pursuit of creating a safer and more harmonious environment for everyone.
https://nl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joes_Kloppenburgbrug
https://www.bruggenvanamsterdam.nl/singel_hoek_oude_spiegelstraat.htm