Balge (river)

Balge
Location
CountryGermany
LocationBremen
The Balge in the 13th century. It flowed around the districts of Martini and Tiefer, flanking the Market Square

The Balge (also known as the Balje)[1] was a short branch of the Weser on its eastern side, running through what is now the centre of Bremen. As it served as a harbour in the early Middle Ages, it significantly contributed to Bremen's development as a port. The river gradually narrowed until in 1608, it was canalised. In 1838, it was completely filled with earth.

  1. ^ Balge or Balje Low German means “flowing body of water”, “waterway” or “trench”.