Marvelous Pont Lafayette isn’t it? The third oldest bridge spanning the Rhone River. This magnificent structure boasts a rich history. It wasn’t always this impressive metal arch.
In 1826 a simpler bridge stood here. It was named Pont Charles-X then later Pont du Concert. This original bridge was made of wood resting on stone. It was rather long 214 meters. Its width was 13 meters.
Then came a pivotal moment in 1829. General Lafayette made a triumphant entry into Lyon. This visit led to the bridge’s renaming in his honor. A fitting tribute to a hero of both the French and American Revolutions. The original Pont Lafayette was unfortunately swept away by floods in 1840 and again in 1856.
The current bridge arose in 1890. It replaced the old wooden structure. This time a stronger metal structure replaced the older bridge. The sturdy stone piers remain. They’re adorned with remarkable bronze sculptures. These are copies of works by the Coustou brothers. They represent the Rhone and Saône rivers. The originals were located near the Louis XIV statue in Place Bellecour until 2021.
The bridge’s central arch suffered damage during World War II. German troops destroyed it in September 1944. Fortunately it was rebuilt. The Pont Lafayette reopened in 1946.
May 1968 witnessed intense clashes in Lyon. Tragically Police Commissioner René Lacroix died here. His death marked a significant turning point in the protests. Pont Lafayette stands as a testament to Lyon’s resilience. Its history echoes through the ages. It is a symbol of Lyon’s strength and its enduring spirit.