Timeline

Key figures

Origin and history

The bridge of Cirey-sur-Blaise, located in the eponymous village of Haute-Marne, was built in the 2nd quarter of the 19th century, more precisely in 1844. Designed by architect Frédéric Delaveuve, it presents a straight apron supported by segment arches, a style characteristic of engineering of this time. Its beaks are decorated with dolphin-shaped sculptures, while its openwork parapet adds a functional aesthetic touch. This bridge spans the Blaise River and is part of the route of the departmental road CD126, linking Joinville to Beurville.

Ranked Historic Monument by order of 13 May 1996, the bridge is protected for its architectural interest and its role in the local heritage. The accuracy of its location is considered satisfactory a priori (level 6/10), and today it belongs to the department of Haute-Marne. Its official address, according to the Mérimée base, is 14 Rue Émilie du Châtelet, although GPS coordinates may suggest a slightly approximate location.

The book illustrates the construction techniques of road bridges in the 19th century, a period marked by the development of transport networks in France. The carved dolphins, symbols often associated with flood protection, reflect particular attention to aesthetics, while recalling the practical function of the building. The mention of architect Delaveuve in the archives underlines the importance attached to the signature of public works at that time, even for utility structures.

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