Pont Lesdiguières, Stone bridge in Claix, France.
The Pont Lesdiguières is a stone bridge crossing the Drac River in Claix in eastern Dauphiné. Its single arch rises approximately 16 meters above the water, spanning roughly 46 meters in length.
Construction began in 1608 under François de Bonne de Lesdiguières and was completed in 1611. It was later designated as a protected monument in 1898.
The bridge has been a crossing point for travelers and merchants in the Dauphiné region since it was built. It connects two communities and remains part of how people move across this river valley.
The crossing is located between Claix and Pont-de-Claix and is accessible by foot. Lighting installations illuminate the stone structures after dark, making visits possible at different times of day.
The bandit Mandrin reportedly confronted customs officers at this crossing in the 1750s. This episode from the era of smuggling conflicts is a lesser-discussed part of the site's local history.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
