Pont de la Tournelle

Spanning the River Seine with elegance and charm, this delightful bridge is a testament to Paris’s rich history and architectural prowess. Originally constructed in the 17th century, it has undergone several transformations, the most significant being in the 1920s when it was rebuilt to its current form.

The Pont de la Tournelle was deliberately designed asymmetrically to highlight the irregular landscape of this section of the Seine. Featuring a large central arch that connects the riverbanks and two smaller arches on either side, the bridge is adorned on the eastern bank with a pylon rising from the left pier’s cutwater. Atop the pylon stands a statue of Saint Geneviève, the patron saint of Paris, created by the Polish-French monumental sculptor Paul Landowski.

The bridge offers a stunning view of the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral, making it a favorite spot for photographers and romantics alike. Legend has it that the bridge was once a meeting point for clandestine lovers during the Belle Époque era, adding a touch of mystery and romance to its storied past. With its graceful arches and the majestic statue of Saint Genevieve, the patron saint of Paris, watching over the city, it serves as a beautiful reminder of the city’s enduring spirit and artistic legacy.

Between 1992 and 1998, many scenes from the series Highlander were filmed along the Quai de la Tournelle and beneath Pont de la Tournelle.

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Photo: Own photos