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| Le Pont Neuf Paris Bridge |
Le Pont Neuf, despite its name meaning “The New Bridge,” is actually the oldest standing bridge in Paris, France. Here’s everything you might want to know about it:
🌉 Le Pont Neuf – Quick Facts
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Location: Spans the Seine River, connecting the Left Bank, Right Bank, and Île de la Cité (where Notre-Dame Cathedral is located)
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Built: Between 1578 and 1607
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Commissioned by: King Henri III, completed under King Henri IV
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Name Meaning: “New Bridge” — because it introduced new features for its time
🛠️ Architectural Highlights
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Length: 238 meters
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Arches: 12 stone arches
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Mascarons: 384 grotesque stone faces carved along the cornice
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Innovations:
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First Parisian bridge without houses built on it
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Included sidewalks for pedestrians
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Wider and safer for traffic in the 17th century
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🏇 Statue of Henri IV
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A bronze equestrian statue of King Henri IV sits prominently on the bridge
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Originally erected in 1614, destroyed during the French Revolution, then rebuilt in 1818
🎨 Cultural Importance
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Featured in countless paintings, films, and books
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In 1985, the bridge was famously wrapped by artists Christo and Jeanne-Claude
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A great place to enjoy Paris views — especially at sunset
📍 How to Visit
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Nearest Metro: Pont Neuf (Line 7)
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Walkable from major landmarks: Louvre, Notre-Dame, Sainte-Chapelle, Latin Quarter
