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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The Orb Canal Bridge, also known as the Béziers Canal Bridge, is an art work allowing the Canal du Midi to cross the Orb River. Built under the direction of Urbain Maguès, director of the Canal du Midi, it was launched in 1854 and put into service in 1858. Its objective was to avoid dangerous and unpredictable boating in the river, which they had to borrow before.

This canal bridge is one of the most impressive in France, comparable to those of the Cacor on the canal from Garonne to Moissac and the Guétin on the lateral canal to the Loire. It reflects the ingenuity of 19th century construction techniques and the strategic importance of the Canal du Midi for river transport.

Since August 29, 1996, the Orb Canal Bridge has been listed as historic monuments, recognizing its heritage and architectural value. It is one of the emblematic works of French civil engineering, studied and referenced in several specialized publications.

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