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Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Aveny Bridge, located on the Epte at Montreuil-sur-Epte, was built between 1744 and 1746 under the direction of Mr.Martinet, a bridge and pavement engineer. It replaces an old wooden bridge and is distinguished by its three arches in basket cove, its triangular fore-beeks and rear-beeks, as well as its cornice characteristic of the 18th century bridges. This bridge also marks the boundary between the departments of Val-d'Oise and Eure, as well as between the Île-de-France and Normandy regions.

The central arch of the bridge was rebuilt in 1872-1873 and 1911, reflecting its continued importance despite the hazards of time. Closed to car traffic in 1993, it was reopened about 15 years later, thus preserving this historic heritage. The Aveny Bridge has been listed as a historic monument since July 4, 1995, recognizing its architectural value and its role in local history.

The bridge is located on a communal road linking the hamlets of Copierres and Aveny, the latter belonging to the neighbouring commune of Dampsmesnil. His name is associated with the former Aveny-Montreuil railway stop, which served the Gisors to Vernon line between 1869 and 1940. Today, this line has become part of London-Paris Green Avenue, a hiking and cycling route.

Montreuil-sur-Epte, a rural village in the French Vexin, is marked by its medieval history and architectural heritage, whose Aveny Bridge is an emblematic example. The commune, located on the border between Île-de-France and Normandy, retains traces of its feudal and agricultural past, while opening up to industrial activities in the nineteenth century, such as the installation of a chair factory in 1862.

The Aveny Bridge thus embodies a pivotal period in local history, where transport infrastructure and regional exchanges have played a key role in economic and social development. Its architecture and location bear witness to 18th-century construction techniques and the territorial dynamics of the time.

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