Pont de Pirmil, Steel tram bridge in Nantes, France.
The Pont de Pirmil is a steel bridge that spans a branch of the Loire River, connecting Nantes Island to the southern district. The structure measures about 300 meters and carries the tram line across the water.
Originally a wooden footbridge from the 9th century, the current steel structure was completed in 1947 after German forces destroyed its predecessor in 1944. The rebuilding was part of Nantes' reconstruction after World War II.
The name comes from 'Pila milliaria', an ancient Roman milestone that once marked this crossing point. It reflects the historical importance of this location as a boundary between northern and southern territories.
The bridge underwent modifications in 1994 to accommodate tram lines and is now part of the public transport network. Visitors can cross it on foot or by tram and enjoy views of the river and banks from here.
During the early 20th century, residential houses stood directly on the previous bridge structure, creating a lived-in corridor over the water. This unusual arrangement turned the bridge into a living street rather than just a passage.
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