Pont du Bourget

Pont du Bourget is a modest but historically intriguing bridge in Antibes, spanning the Brague river on the French Riviera, within easy reach of Cannes and Nice. Local tradition often calls it the "Roman bridge," yet the structure standing today has nothing to do with ancient Rome — it actually dates from the 17th century. That gap between the nickname and the real story is exactly what makes the bridge worth a mention for anyone curious about the area's past, rather than just a pretty stopover.

Where does the bridge get its name?

The name "Bourget" comes from the district that was known as Bourguet back in the 17th century. The bridge once connected the surrounding farmland to the town, carrying traffic across the unpredictable Brague, whose shifting course near the coast caused endless foundation problems for builders.

How was the current bridge built?

The construction story behind today's structure is anything but straightforward. In 1645, an assembly of Provençal communities meeting in Ollioules approved rebuilding the crossing away from the site of a previous bridge that had already collapsed, this time with a single arch spanning 20 meters. In the summer of 1647, two masons — one from Cannes, one from Antibes — took on the job. Bad luck struck that same autumn: the moment the wooden centering supporting the arch was removed, the whole structure came down.

Builders then relocated the project further upstream, to an area known as Pas de Bourgie, near what was called the King's Mill. A new tender was issued in December 1665, and work began in August 1666, reusing stone salvaged from the collapsed bridge. This time the bridge held, and it still stands today — though its position means travelers along the coast have to take a small detour to cross it.

Why is this bridge worth a visit?

Recognizing its historical value, the bridge was listed as a historic monument by decree on September 9, 1935. That status protects it as a record of the region's traditional building craft in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur. For visitors to Antibes, it offers a quiet, lesser-known stop — a good option for anyone who wants a break by the water after exploring the busy old town and Port Vauban.

What else should you see nearby?

Antibes, the town where the bridge sits, is one of the most recognizable towns on the French Riviera. Pairing a visit to Pont du Bourget with a walk through the old town's narrow lanes and ramparts, a stroll around Port Vauban with its lineup of superyachts, and a stop at the Picasso Museum, housed in the former Grimaldi castle, makes for a well-rounded day. Antibes' closeness to Cannes and Nice also makes it a convenient base for exploring further along the coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Pont du Bourget actually a Roman bridge? No. Despite the popular nickname "Roman bridge," the current structure dates from the 17th century and has no connection to Roman times.

Which river does the bridge cross? It crosses the Brague river, which flows through Antibes before reaching the Mediterranean Sea.

Is the bridge a protected historic monument? Yes, it was listed as a historic monument by decree on September 9, 1935.

How do you get to Pont du Bourget from central Antibes? The bridge lies on the edge of town, in the area of the former Bourguet district, within reasonable reach of the old town and Port Vauban, so it's easy to combine with other Antibes sightseeing.