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Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Pont des Fées is an 18th-century stone work, situated on horseback in the communes of Gérardmer and Xonrupt-Longemer in the Vosges. It spans Vologne, after the confluence of the streams of Belbriette and Fies. Its name would come from the local patois "fie" (spice), transforming bridge of fies into bridge of Fairies. This vaulted bridge, with a range of 11.80 metres, was built in 1763 and restored between 1782 and 1838. It was the only passage linking Saint-Dié to the fort house of Martimpré.

Listed in the historic monuments by order of 11 February 1972, the Fairy Bridge bears witness to a utilitarian architectural heritage. Although built of medieval stones, no vestige of a possible anterior wooden bridge was confirmed. The site, enhanced by renovation works, includes an explanatory panel relating its history and local legends, including that of a fairy bewitching knights to build the work.

The toponymy and folk tales surrounding the bridge reflect the Vosges collective imagination. Spices (fies), abundant in the area, inspired his name, while legends evoke supernatural creatures associated with his construction. These cultural elements, coupled with its historic role as a river crossing, make it an emblematic monument to the Great East.

A communal property, the Fairy Bridge is now an accessible site, marked by an approximate location (map precision considered mediocre). His data are referenced in the Mérimée and Structurae bases, highlighting his heritage importance in the Vosges department.

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