 Since 2003, the Elbe–Havel Canal has been connected to the Mittelland Canal by the unique Magdeburg Water Bridge, which crosses above the River Elbe.The Mittelland Canal provides a connection to the west of Germany.To the east, the River Havel connects to the Oder-Havel Canal, and the Elbe–Havel Canal thus forms part of a continuous waterway from the west to Berlin and Poland.