Pont de Pierre, Bordeaux

Spanning the Garonne River, the Pont de Pierre is a distinguished architectural marvel located in the picturesque city of Bordeaux, France. Constructed between 1819 and 1822 during the reign of Napoleon Bonaparte, this stone bridge is emblematic of Bordeaux's historic charm and urban elegance.

The bridge's design is a testament to early 19th-century engineering, boasting 17 arches that symbolically correspond to the number of letters in the name 'Napoléon Bonaparte.' Each arch is framed by a medallion, and the bridge spans a total length of 486 meters, seamlessly connecting the left and right banks of the city.

At the time of its completion, the Pont de Pierre was a pioneering structure, as it was the first bridge to cross the Garonne in Bordeaux. It facilitated commerce and communication, playing a pivotal role in the city's development and integration.

Today, the Pont de Pierre remains a vital thoroughfare and a beloved landmark. Its robust yet graceful profile offers pedestrians and cyclists a scenic passage across the river, with panoramic views of the historic cityscape and the bustling waterfront. The bridge's aesthetic appeal is further enhanced in the evening when it is illuminated, casting a warm glow on the waters below.