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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The Pont des Fées is a historic monument located in the forest of Fossard, on horseback to the communes of Saint-Amé and Saint-Étienne-lès-Remiremont, in the department of Vosges (Great East). Built in dry stone, it dates back to a period between the 7th and 14th centuries, although its exact origin remains unknown. The building, 29 metres long, 13 metres wide and 7 metres high, was once one of the two bridges in the area, the second being demolished in 1848 for the construction of the Remiremont prison.

Since 4 February 1988, the bridge has been closed to the public since April 2023, although it remains visible. A deviation and a new course were developed by volunteers of the Vosges Club to allow visitors to observe it remotely. According to a local legend, the fairies built this bridge in one night thanks to their magic, adding a mystical dimension to this medieval vestige.

The bridge illustrates ancient construction techniques, including the use of dry stone, typical of medieval structures. Its location in the forest and its state of conservation make it a rare testimony of rural architecture of that time. Although its initial function is not clearly documented, it may have served as a strategic or commercial crossing in an area marked by exchanges between Vosges valleys.

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