The Lügenbrückl – Liars’ Bridge
At the end of Spitalgasse once stood the Lügenbrückl, a small bridge that connected the Hauptplatz (main square) with the Unterer Platz (lower square). Beneath it flowed the so-called Feuerbach, a watercourse typical of every medieval town.
But this modest structure was more than just a bridge – it became a popular meeting place for the townspeople. Here, they would chat, exchange news – and, as the story goes, tell the occasional tale that was not entirely true. This gave rise to its playful name: Lügenbrückl, meaning “Liars’ Bridge”.
Today, the bridge itself no longer exists. Yet its name lives on and serves as a reminder of the lively everyday culture that once animated the historical town centre.
Historical Background
The Lügenbrückl probably spanned an old watercourse that once separated the two squares. On town plans from the 18th and 19th centuries, this connection is still indicated. As the ditch was gradually filled in and the town centre redesigned, the bridge disappeared – but its name remained in the collective memory of the local population.
Text on the Sign
Between these houses flowed a stream. On the bridge that connected the main square with the lower square, the people of St. Veit would gather to chat. Since much of this was untrue, the place became known as “Lügenbrückl” (Liar’s Bridge).