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Origin and history

The Alsou Bridge, also known as the Sou Bridge, is a medieval building located in the municipality of Lagrasse, in the department of Aude, in the Occitan region. Built in the 12th century, it crosses the Alsou River and stands out for its two arched structure in the middle of the hangar, with fore-beek piles and fully equipped vaults. This bridge was once a compulsory passage on the old road between Lagrasse and Carcassonne, crossing the steep slopes of the Coque mountain.

The first written mention of the bridge dates back to 1759, although its construction was long earlier. In the 19th century, a new road was built in the gorges of Alsou, making the old route and bridge less frequented. The building has notable architectural features, such as low-winged walls maintaining the clearing on both sides of the abutments, as well as a cylindrical construction adjacent to the north abutment, accessible by a narrow covered passage surmounted by a blocking dome.

Ranked a historic monument by decree of 27 April 1948, the Alsou bridge is now owned by the municipality of Lagrasse. Although its use has evolved over time, it remains an important testimony of medieval engineering and the history of communication routes in the region. Its approximate location is indicated as being approximately 1.2 km west of the centre of Lagrasse, near the Moulin de Boysede.

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