Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Old Bridge of Dinan is a medieval roadworks located in the Côtes-d'Armor department in Brittany. It crosses the Rance between the municipalities of Dinan (right bank) and Lanvallay (left bank). Its oldest parts, including a Romanesque arch and a broken arch, date back to the 15th and 16th centuries, although a first bridge was attested as early as 1070 by a charter of foundation of the priory of the Bridge at Dinan, established between 1070 and 1118. This historical document confirms the ancient existence of a passage to this strategic location on the Rance.

The current bridge has undergone major changes over the centuries. Ranked historic monument by decree of February 10, 1903, it was redesigned in 1922 by the architect Raymond Cornon, who added a large "marine arch" to facilitate the passage of the boats towards Rennes. Originally, the work was based on five arches (full hanger and broken arches), one of which was blocked on the Dinan side due to the evolution of the Rance bed. Until 1824, watermills were docked at the bridge, demonstrating its multifunctional economic role.

The remaining two spans are 6.40 metres and 16.20 metres, respectively. Successive reconstructions altered its original course, rendering it uncoordinated. Owned by the municipality, the bridge illustrates the adaptation of medieval infrastructures to modern needs, combining architectural heritage and contemporary utility. Its ranking in 1903 underscores its historical value, while the modifications of the 20th century reflect the challenges posed by river navigation on the Rance.

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