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Bridge · Toulouse, Occitânia
Pont-Neuf
The oldest bridge over the Garonne in Toulouse, despite its name, with seven brick and stone arches; from it you can see the Prairie des Filtres and the Hôtel-Dieu.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Pont-Neuf
Despite its name, which means “new bridge,” the Pont-Neuf is the oldest bridge in Toulouse over the Garonne. Work began in 1544 at the initiative of King Francis I and was only completed in 1632, after many floods destroyed parts of the construction.
It has seven brick and stone arches. The piers have hollow openings, the dégueuloirs, which let water pass during floods and help the bridge withstand the river's force.
From the bridge you can see the best-known stretch of the Garonne's banks: on one side, the brick quais of the center; on the other, the façade of the Hôtel-Dieu Saint-Jacques, an old hospital that is part of the World Heritage Routes of Santiago de Compostela, and the dome of La Grave.
On the left bank is the Prairie des Filtres, a grassy park below the Cours Dillon where locals picnic and sit to watch the river. On the right bank, the Quai de la Daurade has steps that descend to the water.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 30 minutes to 1 hour, including the walk along the banks.
Best time
At the end of the afternoon, when the sun often sets behind the left bank and lights up the brick on the right bank. In spring and summer the banks fill with people.
How to get there
It's about 800 meters from the Place du Capitole, at the end of Rue de Metz. The nearest metro station is Esquirol (line A).
Tip
Cross the bridge and go down to the Prairie des Filtres to see Toulouse's center on the other side of the river. On days of high water, access to the lower parts of the banks may be closed.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Pont-Neuf
Why is the Pont-Neuf the oldest bridge if the name means 'new bridge'?
The name dates from the time of its construction in the 16th and 17th centuries. Earlier bridges disappeared, and it remained the oldest over the Garonne in the city.
What is the Prairie des Filtres?
A grassy park on the left bank of the Garonne, next to the Pont-Neuf, widely used by locals for picnics and to watch the river.
What's the best time for photos?
Late afternoon, when the light hits the brick on the right bank.