Pont de la Haute-Chaîne, bridge in France
The Pont de la Haute-Chaîne is a reinforced concrete bridge that crosses the Maine river in Angers and connects downtown neighborhoods. Its structure features a flat deck supported by three sections resting on two large supports in the water, allowing pedestrians and vehicles to view the river below.
An iron bridge was built here in 1839 to replace a ferry service that had crossed the river for centuries. The present concrete structure was completed in 1951, updating the crossing with mid-20th-century construction techniques.
The name 'Haute-Chaîne' refers to chains that once stretched across the river in medieval times to protect the city. When crossing today, visitors can see the nearby Tour des Anglais fortification and understand how this location served as a defensive checkpoint in the city's past.
The bridge is freely accessible to pedestrians and vehicles at all times and offers good views of the Maine river from above. With its flat deck and sturdy railings, crossing is straightforward for all users.
Medieval defense origins are preserved in the bridge's name, which refers to chains King René stretched across the river in 1446 to protect the city from intruders. This defensive method has long faded from memory, yet the nearby Tour des Anglais subtly recalls this hidden chapter of 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.
