2 Euro proof (5th proof set 2016 - 2018)

The Großherzogin-Charlotte-Brücke was built in connection with the development of the Kirchberg Plateau. Since the 1950s, Luxembourg had established itself as one of the workplaces of the European Communities. Administrative buildings for European institutions were planned on the plateau, which at the time was still only sparsely developed. A state development fund was established in 1961 for its development. The new bridge was intended to cross the deeply incised Alzette Valley and create a direct access route; previously, Kirchberg could only be reached from the western part of the capital by taking detours.

The structure, designed by the German architect Egon Jux, was built between 1962 and 1966. Its striking red paint led to the commonly used name “Rote Brücke”. The construction consists of a steel box girder running above the Pfaffenthal district. With its large, largely column-free span, the bridge also shaped the subsequent urban development of Kirchberg. In addition to European institutions, residential areas, cultural venues, higher-education buildings and a financial district were later established there. As part of a reconstruction, the bridge was also fitted with tracks for the Luxembourg tram and wider paths for pedestrians and cyclists.

The namesake was Grand Duchess Charlotte, who ruled Luxembourg from 1919 to 1964. Following the German invasion in 1940, she went into exile with her family and the government. From there, she addressed the Luxembourg population, among other means, through radio broadcasts. After her return in 1945, she became a figure of identification for the restored independence of the state. In 1964, she abdicated in favor of her son Jean.

The anniversary was a suitable occasion for a coin because the bridge is not merely a transport structure. Its construction represents the expansion of the capital onto the Kirchberg Plateau and Luxembourg’s role as a location for European institutions. The design thus combines national history, urban development and European integration.