The bridge connects the old town with the Altsaalfeld district. First mentioned in the 14th century as a narrow single-lane structure, it was no longer able to cope with the increasing traffic, as it was the only connection between the old town and the industrial district. It was replaced by a new one in 1890.

It existed until it was blown up in the final days of the Second World War. The Saale bridge was then rebuilt in 1946 and is still an important link between the two banks today. Tip: Directly under the bridge at Saaltor is the entrance to the Saale cycle path and access points for water hiking.