Pont Jules-César, Stone bridge in Nantes, France
The Pont Jules-César spans the Chézine River, connecting the southern end of Boulevard des Anglais to the opposite side through multiple stone arches and brick parapets. The structure is sized to accommodate vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians.
The structure was completed in 1879 during a period when Nantes was expanding. The bridge marked a boundary between the city and the neighboring area of Chantenay-sur-Loire.
The bridge takes its name from a Roman military commander who once fought against the Veneti, a Celtic people who lived along this river. The name reflects the ancient past of this region.
You can walk or bike across, and there is also a lane for vehicle traffic. The best time to cross is during quieter hours when you can better observe the arches and the river below.
The stone arches display construction methods common in the late 19th century that used local materials. This building approach made the bridge durable and a solid example of engineering from that period.
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