Battant bridge, Tram bridge in Besançon, France
Battant bridge is a steel and concrete structure spanning 60 meters across the Doubs River, connecting the Battant and La Boucle neighborhoods in Besançon. The structure carries a tram line and includes a pedestrian pathway for walkers.
A Roman stone bridge with five arches once stood at this location, serving as the sole access route to Besançon for many centuries. Following its destruction, a concrete structure was built in 1953, which was later replaced by the current steel framework.
The crossing links two neighborhoods, with the Battant side historically rooted in grape and wine production by local workers who shaped its distinct character. Today it remains a daily passage between distinct parts of the city.
The crossing is most easily reached on foot or by tram, offering direct passage between the two riverside areas. The pedestrian path also allows cyclists to cross easily to the other side.
The current bridge was built after removing 3000 tons of concrete from the 1953 structure to make space for the new steel framework. This demolition and reconstruction marked a shift toward lighter and more modern infrastructure.
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