Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Turgot bridge of Uzerche, built in the 2nd quarter of the 18th century, is part of a wider project to improve the Paris-Toulouse road. In 1730, Intendant Tourny identified the poor condition of Brive and Uzerche bridges and planned major works. This new building was to link the town of Sainte-Eulalie to the historic centre of Uzerche, perched on a rocky piton. Work began quickly, with a first tranche advanced as early as 1745.

The completion of the bridge was attested in 1753. It is distinguished by its three arches in the middle of the hang and its shape in light donkey back, typical of 18th century architecture. Its technical features include almond forks and sterns, as well as a neat masonry of well-seated bellows. These elements reflect the constructive norms of the time, combining functionality and aesthetics.

Ranked Historic Monument by order of 4 October 1990, the Turgot Bridge is today owned by the Corrèze department. It remains an important testimony of the road infrastructure of the Enlightenment century, marked by administrative reforms and technical progress. Its initial role, facilitating the crossing of the Vézère and deenclaving Uzerche, illustrates the traffic issues of the era.

The location of the bridge on CD 3 and its integration into the urban landscape of Uzerche underline its historical and heritage importance. Although its geographical accuracy is considered poor (level 5/10), it remains a visual and functional landmark for the city, as evidenced by the approximate GPS coordinates available (5774 Rue du Pont Turgot).

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