Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The covered bridge of the Pont-Chrétien-Chabenet, built in the 19th century, is a fully covered wooden structure, unique in France. It crosses the Bouzanne River west of the village, connecting two banks to serve agricultural estates. Its roof protects the wooden structure, a once common but now rare process. The deck rests on two stone abutments and a triangulated frame, with a board apron and side walls made of wood and stone.

According to the sources, its construction could date from 1855, authorized by a prefectural order for the Count of Poix, owner of the castle of Chabenet. He wanted to connect his land on the right bank of the Bouzanne River. Another hypothesis evokes a construction around 1860, linked to the work of the nearby railway viaduct (1847-1854), after the drowning of workers. The bridge, originally private, was donated to the commune in 1975 and was listed as a Historic Monument in 1992.

The bridge underwent major restoration in 2001 to preserve its original structure. Its old-fashioned wooden assemblies with ankles or bolts, as well as its masonry forebody, bear witness to traditional techniques. In the vicinity, ancient Roman quarries, having been used for the construction of the Viaduct and Argentomagus, recall the local industrial history. A commemorative plaque inside the bridge tells its history and past use.

With a length of 20 meters, a width of 3.50 meters and an identical height, the bridge combines functional simplicity and rare heritage. Its classification and restoration underline its historical and architectural importance. Today, it attracts visitors for its exceptional character and its link to local history, from the Romans to the 19th century railways.

External links