Viaduc de l’Ourche, Railway bridge in Vosges, France
The Viaduc de l'Ourche is a railway bridge in the Vosges featuring eight arches that span 121 meters and rise 43 meters above the Ourche River valley. The structure connects the banks through a series of stone supports carefully positioned over the terrain below.
The bridge was built in 1882 to complete a military railway network connecting Jussey to Darnieulles-Uxegney. After more than 90 years of regular service, train traffic ended in 1973.
The structure displays decorative balconies supported by stone consoles that reflect 19th-century French railway building standards. Visitors can observe these details from multiple viewpoints and appreciate the craftsmanship of the stonework.
The former railway line is now accessible for recreational activities, with opportunities for rock climbing and bungee jumping on the structure. Visitors should wear weather-appropriate clothing and note that these activities require physical fitness.
The bridge's arches gradually decrease in size toward the valley sides, creating a harmonious transition from the central span to the supports. This tapered design shows how 19th-century engineers distributed weight across the structure.
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