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Origin and history

The Asfeld Bridge is a strategic structure designed to connect Briançon with the Fort des Têtes, located in the Hautes-Alpes. Its construction was motivated by the fortification projects of Vauban, which, during his visit in 1700, had stressed the need for a bridge over the Durance to secure military communications. Originally conceived as a simple wooden culvert in 1708, it was replaced by a masonry structure under the impulse of the Marquis d'Asfeld, successor to Vauban.

The work began in 1729 after the creation of an access road carved from the rock. The engineer Heuriance, in charge of the project, faced major technical challenges, including the absence of a central pile due to the height of the gorges. The unique arch, with a range of 38.60 metres, was mounted on a wooden hanger between April and August 1730, requiring more than 2,000 blocks of stone. The apron was completed in 1731, and the bridge, inaugurated in 1734, became a symbol of architectural prowess.

Ranked a historic monument in 1988 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008, the Asfeld Bridge illustrates the ingenuity of 18th century military engineers. Nicknamed "the Devil's Bridge" by the premises, it was also used for defense, with a wall and a guard on the strong side of the Heads. Today, it attracts tourists for its panorama and activities such as the jump to the elastic.

Vauban had insisted on the strategic importance of Briançon after the razing of Pignerol, proposing a network of fortifications including this bridge. The Marquis d'Asfeld, director of fortifications, realized this project by opting for a bold solution: a stone vault without intermediate support. The techniques used, such as rock mining and the use of anti-splash boxes, are evidence of the innovations of the time.

The memory of engineer Heuriance, dated 1742, underscores the admiration aroused by this work, built in perilous conditions without any accident. The bridge, originally called the "Communication Bridge", was quickly associated with the name of Asfeld. His defensive role was complemented by developments like a dread on Mount Salette, strengthening Briançon's protection.

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