Pont de Saint-Savin, Stone arch bridge over the Gartempe in Saint-Savin, France
Pont de Saint-Savin is a stone arch bridge spanning the Gartempe River that links the monastery with the opposite bank. The structure features multiple arches of varying sizes, with the central openings being particularly broad to allow water flow.
The structure was built in the 13th century by monks from the Saint-Savin monastery to establish a permanent crossing over the river. It later became a key route connecting major trading centers of the time.
Locals also call it the Poitou bridge, and it still carries road traffic between Saint-Savin and Saint-Germain. Its rounded piers hold pedestrian refuges where walkers can step aside, and the pointed arches of the five other spans contrast with the single rounded central arch.
The bridge is freely accessible year-round and can be crossed on foot to explore the surrounding area. The nearby village offers basic facilities including small restaurants and rest areas for visitors.
The central span is the widest at 10.36 m, while the span beside the monastery bank measures only 5.75 m. The rounded piers carry pedestrian refuges, and the roadway between the parapets is 3 m wide.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 94,623 contributors worldwide.