Revitalization of the historical bridge over the Mała Panew River in Ozimek – the oldest chain suspension grey cast iron river-crossing on the European continent

Renovation methodology applied to protect the historical chain suspension bridge made of grey cast iron and erected in the years 1825-1827 over the Mala Panew river in the vicinity of Opole is presented and discussed in detail. This bridge crossing, of unique structure, is currently recognized as the oldest cast iron suspension bridge erected on the European continent (excluding British Isles). Special attention was paid to analyse the weakening of main bearing components induced by gradual degradation of the material properties during their extremely long service time. Replacement of several worn out and cracked links in the bearing chains proved to be necessary. As a result of the conducted works the bridge has been sufficiently strengthened and due to that protected against the detrimental influence of possible vibrations. All joints have been renewed and cleaned as well. Currently the bridge is accessible only for pedestrian traffic of limited intensity.