Pont de pierre, Bordeaux, France
© SergiyN/Getty Image
Pont de pierre, Bordeaux, France
The stone bridge that spans the Garonne River in Bordeaux, France, has been a powerful symbol of the city since its inauguration in 1822. Commissioned by Napoleon I and designed by engineers Deschamps and Billaudel, this historic bridge was the first to connect both banks. With its 17 majestic arches resting on 16 piers, it measures 486 metres in length and showcases the ingenuity of its time. Initially named 'Pont Louis XVIII' upon its opening, it was quickly adopted by the people of Bordeaux as the 'Pont de Pierre,' meaning 'stone bridge,' likely due to its sturdy construction.
Today, after more than two centuries of service and several renovations, the Pont de Pierre remains a vital thoroughfare and a favoured viewpoint of the Port of the Moon. Closed to automobile traffic, it has become a popular promenade reserved for pedestrians, cyclists and public transport. Reinforcement work is scheduled for the summer of 2025 to ensure the longevity of this testament to Bordeaux's history.
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