Nyons Bridge, Stone arch bridge in Nyons, France
Nyons Bridge is a stone structure with a single large arch that spans the Eygues River. The construction features solid stone walls and a robust design typical of medieval engineering, with steep ramps leading up to the crossing on both sides.
Construction began in 1341, but for half a century only the abutments were built; in March 1398 the Roman quarryman and carpenter Guillaume de Pays contracted to raise a single arch between them for 1,200 gold florins. The bridge was likely finished before 1405 and inaugurated in 1409 by the Bishop of Vaison. A toll tower stood at its centre until about 1850.
The bridge stands as a symbol of medieval Nyons and has shaped how residents and visitors move through the town for hundreds of years. It connects the two sides of the community and remains central to how people experience the town layout.
The bridge sits near the town center and is easy to reach on foot while walking through Nyons. The crossing surface is wide enough for safe passage, though the ramps on each side are steep, so good footwear helps.
The arch is built of limestone blocks laid on end, a technique called grand appareil, with a span of 40.5 m and a rise of 19 m. Two triangular cutwaters protect the base, and a vaulted passage runs through the left abutment 3.5 m above the river, giving rise to the local saying that you must pass under the bridge before passing over it.
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