Angers Bridge, Suspension bridge over Maine River, Angers, France
Angers Bridge is a reinforced concrete structure linking the Doutre neighborhood with the castle area, measuring 124 meters across the Maine. The central suspended section extends 54 meters, while the width reaches 7.2 meters to accommodate vehicles and pedestrians.
The original suspended crossing failed in 1850 during a storm while soldiers were passing over. The disaster changed military protocols and construction standards across Europe.
The crossing carries a plaque in memory of 225 people who perished when the earlier structure collapsed in 1850. This site became a symbol of the need for new safety standards in construction.
The crossing is open to motorized traffic and walkers, offering views toward the castle and old town. Morning hours work well for walking, when the flow of cars remains light.
The collapse led armies worldwide to order troops not to march in step when crossing bridges. This rule is still taught and applied in many countries today.
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