Bridge of the Holes, Gothic water gate in Tournai, Belgium
The stone bridge features three pointed arches spanning the Scheldt River, with two square defensive towers constructed from local limestone blocks.
Construction of the bridge began in 1281 during the medieval fortification of Tournai, taking 50 years to complete the towers and connecting arches.
The bridge represents a rare example of medieval military architecture in Belgium, forming part of the second defensive wall system of Tournai.
Visitors can view the bridge from multiple angles along the riverbank paths, with optimal photography conditions occurring during morning and evening hours.
The structure contained a mechanical portcullis system that could block river traffic, making it one of the few remaining medieval water gates in Europe.
Location: Tournai
Inception: 1281
Architectural style: Gothic art
Part of: city walls of Tournai
Address: Quai Donat Casterman, 7500 Tournai, Belgium
Website: https://archeologia.be/pontdestrous-historique.html
GPS coordinates: 50.61300,3.38379
Latest update: June 19, 2025 10:09
Stone arch bridges rank among the most durable structures in history. From Roman aqueducts in Spain to medieval river crossings in Central Europe, these constructions demonstrate the evolution of engineering over two millennia. The Pont du Gard in France once transported 20,000 cubic meters of water daily over 50 kilometers, while the Segovia Aqueduct in Spain was built without mortar. In Asia, stone bridges like the Marco Polo Bridge in China have connected trade routes for centuries. The Khaju Bridge in Isfahan functions simultaneously as a dam and public gathering space. These structures served multiple purposes: transport, water supply, and social meeting points. Many of these bridges and aqueducts remain in use today. They document various construction techniques, from Roman concrete vaults to Persian brick arch structures. The constructions have survived wars, earthquakes, and floods, remaining functional elements of modern infrastructure.
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