Pont de Pierre (Stone Bridge), Bordeaux

The Pont de Pierre stands as a roadway and tram bridge spanning the River Garonne, situated at the heart of Bordeaux. Its purpose is to link Cours Victor Hugo, positioned on the left bank, with Avenue Thiers on the opposite bank of the river. Translated as the 'stone bridge' in English, the Pont de Pierre's inception was attributed to the former Emperor of France, Napoleon Bonaparte. However, its actual construction did not commence until 1819, four years following Napoleon's downfall at the Battle of Waterloo, coinciding with the restoration of the Bourbon monarchy in France.

This structure, which has become one of the most iconic landmarks of the city, was featured prominently on a French postage stamp issued in 2004. The stamp, masterminded by Claude Andréotto, showcases the Pont de Pierre alongside one of the city's distinct trams traversing its expanse. The bridge itself measures half a kilometer in length and boasts 17 arches, supposedly symbolic of each letter present in Napoleon's full name. Notably, each column adorning either side of the bridge is crowned with a white medallion, paying tribute to the Emperor, who met his demise in exile during the bridge's construction phase.

Constructing the Pont de Pierre posed a significant challenge to engineers of its time, as it was the initial bridge within the city to span the width of the Garonne. The river's width and powerful currents necessitated the repeated use of a diving bell to stabilize the bridge's foundations. Finally unveiled in 1822, this bridge served as the sole link between the two halves of the city until the year 1965.

Why You Should Visit:
Iconic view of Bordeaux, from the bridge or the water.
A constant temptation to photographers!

Tip:
While most of Bordeaux's big attractions are on the left bank of the Garonne, if you only get over to the right bank once, do make it a point to stroll across this wonderful bridge as far as Stalingrad square on the opposite side, where you can see the very striking Blue Lion sculpture, maybe have a coffee in one of the cozy cafés on the square, then stroll back again.