Pont des Planches

Pont des Planches is a stone bridge spanning the Iton river in Acquigny, in the Eure department of Normandy. It stands just upstream from the village, at a spot known as les Planches, and ranks among the region's best-preserved examples of 18th-century arched bridge building.

What is the history behind the bridge?

The first written record of a crossing at this spot dates back to 1226. The place name itself, les Planches, points to a small wooden footbridge that still stood here as late as the second half of the 17th century. The stone structure visible today was built in the mid-18th century, replacing those earlier, less durable crossings.

The bridge did not stay untouched over the following centuries. A letter sent to the prefect of Eure in 1821 already described it as an old structure in need of repair. Rather than demolishing it and starting fresh, local authorities chose in 1860 to widen the existing bridge instead. The work turned up a surprise: in 1864, builders uncovered two older arches hidden at each end beneath later additions. The following year, in 1865, the bridge was widened by one meter on its upstream side, with the new section built in brick and the original upstream cutwaters removed. In 1866, footpaths supported on corbelled cast-iron brackets were added, along with railings.

How is the bridge built?

Pont des Planches rests on six full stone arches made of dressed masonry, separated on the upstream side by distinctive cutwaters designed to break the current. This layout, typical of road bridges from the period, helped the structure withstand the Iton's seasonal floods.

What happened to it in the 20th century?

In 1960, a new road bridge was built nearby, taking over the crossing's practical role and leaving the old Pont des Planches without a function. It was subsequently sold and has remained private property ever since. Its historical value was nonetheless recognized: by a decree dated October 31, 2007, the bridge was listed as a monument historique.

Why is Pont des Planches worth a visit?

For anyone interested in regional architecture and history, the bridge offers a rare, legible record of 18th-century road engineering that survived later rebuilding without losing its original character. The visible contrast between stone and brick sections today traces the successive stages of work carried out in the 1860s.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where exactly is Pont des Planches located? The bridge crosses the Iton river just upstream from the village of Acquigny, at a location called les Planches, in the Eure department of Normandy.

When was the current bridge built? The stone bridge seen today was built in the mid-18th century, though a crossing at this location has existed since at least 1226.

Can visitors walk across the bridge? Since 1960, Pont des Planches has been private property, as a newly built road bridge nearby took over its original function.

Is the bridge a protected historic monument? Yes, Pont des Planches has been listed as a monument historique since October 31, 2007.