Pont Louis-Vicat, Stone arch bridge in Souillac and Lanzac, France.
The pont Louis-Vicat spans 180 meters across the Dordogne with seven arches and connects the towns of Souillac and Lanzac. The structure combines artificial cement with stone, showcasing the technical capabilities available at the time.
Napoleon I ordered construction in 1812 to improve crossing the Dordogne River. The project was completed in 1824 and solved the problem of difficult river passage that had hindered travel through the region.
The bridge represents a turning point in French engineering and shows how local builders adopted more modern construction techniques. It embodies the shift from traditional stone methods to innovative materials that shaped 19th-century building practices.
The bridge carries road D820 and underwent major renewal work between 2013 and 2020 to ensure long-term durability. Visitors can view the structure from the road or enjoy a different perspective from the riverbank.
Engineer Louis Vicat developed the artificial cement used in this construction but never patented the invention. His decision allowed others to benefit from this breakthrough technology and spread it across the world.
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