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Origin and history

The Notre Dame de Saint-Junien Bridge, built in the 13th century, is a historic monument located on the Vienna River. Originally there were seven arches, reduced to six today. Its robust piles and its arches in broken arches, typical of medieval architecture, testify to its initial strength. Upstream, fore-beeks in the form of a ship's bow and, downstream, rectangular projections served as shelter for pedestrians. A battery, carried away around 1595, was replaced, partially modifying its structure.

A Gothic chapel dedicated to the Virgin, built in 1451 and enlarged in 1463 under Louis XI, stands at the entrance of the bridge, right bank. It succeeds several oratories erected on the same site. In the 19th century, the bridge underwent major changes: widening of the sidewalks in 1850, with vaults clad against the batteries, altering its original appearance. In the 20th century, a slice of reinforced cement was added to the entrance, and the stone parapet was replaced by a cement model.

The bridge, owned by the Haute-Vienne department, has been partially protected since 1986, with the exception of its reinforced cement deck. Its architecture thus combines medieval elements, Renaissance additions, and modern modifications, reflecting its evolution throughout the centuries. The accuracy of its location is considered very satisfactory, and there is still a significant testimony of the limousine heritage.

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