Timeline

Origin and history

The Chavillon Bridge, located at La Grand-Croix in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, was built in 1856, during the 3rd quarter of the 19th century. This mining bridge, 8 metres high and 13 metres long, was designed to support a railway. Its main objective was to ensure the evacuation of coal from the pits of the Planèze and Combérigol concession to the Gier valley. It was part of a railway line linking these wells to the Lyon-Saint-Étienne line, thus playing a key role in the local mining industry.

The structure of the bridge lay on two abutments of coal sandstone and consisted of an oak wood frame. Two arches, each of two curved beams and a sandstone, crossed the river. These elements were assembled by moulds and bolts, creating a unique architecture. Chavillon Bridge was the last example retained in France of a wooden mining bridge, giving it exceptional heritage value.

Unfortunately, the bridge collapsed, and the pieces of wood, totally degraded, resulted in the definitive destruction of its most remarkable part. As a result, it was removed from listing as historical monuments. Today, only remains of this industrial testimony, which was once essential for the transport of coal in the region.

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