The PONT DE PIERRE is Bordeaux's first bridge. It dates from 1810 and was opened to traffic in 1822 (driven by Napoleon I).
A magnificent structure designed by engineers Billaudel & Deschamps.
Beyond what you see of this bridge, its design is clever since it leans on the river itself and its force to strengthen its frame.
It elegantly links the right bank to its Bastide district and will remain Bordeaux's only bridge for nearly 150 years.
Recently (since August 2017) it's been closed to car traffic that was hurting its old shoulders, it has become a favorite spot for walks on foot or by bike and at the same time an object of controversy.
Since 2002 it has entered the historic monument register and rightly so! Often, the pont de pierre or rather its history and build is associated with Napoleon Bonaparte... Several stories persist about its design. The trick of the 17 arches, like the 17 letters of... You see what I mean, right?
The truth is it was initiated and started under Napoleon I.
And why 17 arches? Well with 16, a piece was missing and people were falling into the river!
The river was considered untamable in Antiquity and few had risked imagining one day crossing it on a bridge... and even less in stone.
A bridge you must walk on, it offers a unique, living panorama.
