Pont de Pierre

The Pont de Pierre (Stone Bridge) in Bordeaux is a significant historical landmark connecting the historic left bank, specifically Cours Victor Hugo, with the La Bastide district on the right bank of the Garonne River. Although named for its appearance, the bridge is primarily constructed of brick rather than stone. It was the first bridge over the Garonne at Bordeaux, planned during the First French Empire under Napoleon I to facilitate troop movement. Due to resource shortages, construction began later during the Bourbon Restoration, taking place from 1819 to 1822.

The bridge features 17 spans, corresponding to the number of letters in "Napoleon Bonaparte." It was designed by architect Claude Deschamps and structural engineer Jean-Baptiste Basilide Billaudel. Builders faced significant challenges, including the river’s strong current and a high tidal range of 6 meters. Inaugurated on May 1, 1822, it remained the only bridge connecting the city center to the right bank for nearly 150 years.

Currently, the bridge serves as a vital transport link, crossed by an ultramodern tramway, and acts as the legal frontier between the maritime and river domains in the port of Bordeaux. It is owned by Bordeaux Métropole. While it is a symbol of elegance for locals, it is scheduled to close to traffic for two months starting August 1st for an experiment aimed at improving air quality and city center accessibility. Specific opening hours and admission fees are not provided, as it is a public infrastructure element. Visitors can walk or take the tram across to enjoy views of the river and the city’s architecture.