Pont de l'Université, Metal arch bridge over Rhône River in Lyon, France.
The Pont de l'Université is a metal arch bridge spanning the Rhône River in Lyon with three sections supported by stone piers. The 20-meter wide deck connects Quai du Docteur-Gailleton to Quai Claude-Bernard and serves pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles.
The bridge was built in the early 20th century and became an important connection for the growing city. During the Second World War, German troops destroyed the central arch during their 1944 withdrawal, and the structure was rebuilt and reopened in 1947.
The bridge connects an educational district and features cast iron railings decorated with symbols of the French Republic, laurel wreaths, and fleur de lis designs. These decorations reflect the place's importance to the city and its republican values.
The bridge is straightforward to cross on foot or by bicycle, and the flat path is accessible to all users. The best time for a walk is during quieter hours of the day to enjoy the river views without traffic noise.
Original streetlights from 1903 still stand on the bridge today, bearing witness to its long past. The metal components were manufactured in the foundries of Longwy in northeastern France, reflecting the regional craftsmanship of that era.
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