Heritage classified

Origin and history

The old bridge of Beissat, located on the Gartempe between Saint-Ouen-sur-Gartempe and Peyrat-de-Bellac, dates from the 13th century. It is mentioned for the first time in 1470 in a transaction relating to neighboring mills, suggesting an old use and integrated into the local economy. Its architecture, consisting of three arches (one in full hanger and two in broken arch), as well as its wide piles and its donkey back profile, reflect medieval construction techniques adapted to river crossings.

A toll, probably in force for several centuries, was officially confirmed in 1660, indicating the strategic and economic importance of this work. Originally, the bridge connected the towns of Bellac and the Dorat, playing a key role in regional exchanges. Its acute angle spurs, designed to break currents, illustrate engineering adapted to the hydraulic stresses of the Gartempe.

Ranked Historic Monument by decree of 23 November 1970, the bridge is today communal property. Its state of conservation and its approximate location (noted 5/10 precisely) make it a remarkable, though partially documented, vestige of the limousin road heritage. Available sources, such as Monumentum, highlight its architectural and historical interest, without providing details on possible sponsors or artisans.

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