Pont-Neuf (New Bridge), Paris

Despite its name suggesting newness, New Bridge is the oldest surviving bridge over the Seine in Paris. Located at the western end of the City Island, this historic overpass marks the early heart of the French capital. Built in two parts—one with five arches connecting the left bank to City Island, and the other with seven arches linking the island to the right bank—the bridge offers a unique view of the island’s expanded tip, now home to the Square du Vert-Galant, a park named for Henry IV, also known as the "Green Gallant."

Named "New" to distinguish it from the older bridges existing at the time, traditionally lined with houses on both sides, New Bridge became a cultural and architectural landmark for its open design, which allowed unbroken views of the Louvre. Construction began in 1578, under Henry III, and was completed in 1606, under Henry IV, producing the first stone bridge free from houses, with paved walkways for pedestrian safety and angled spans for resilience. An equestrian statue of Henry IV, destroyed during the French Revolution and restored in 1818, commemorates his legacy.

Another distinctive element of the bridge was the semicircular bastions jutting out above the piers. These were made to allow people to step aside so as not to get wet or soiled in mud by passing carriages. Later on, they served as popular gathering spots and, at one point, even functioned as trading areas for street vendors and even tooth-pullers. Now that the tooth-pullers are gone, these bastions are primarily occupied by tourists and enamored couples seeking to immerse themselves in the city's romantic ambiance.

New Bridge's decorative features include 381 mascarons — Renaissance-style stone masks with high relief — on the outer edges of the bridge, close to the cornice. In the 1850s, they were replaced with copies. On closer examination, it becomes apparent that each mascaron is unique, with its distinct and rather unconventional expression; some appear to be contorted in grimaces or otherworldly visages.

Between 1712 and 1719, a large pump house was built on the bridge. Decorated with an image of the Samaritan woman at the well, it was aptly called the Samaritan. Years later, it inspired the eponymous department store “La Samaritaine,” established in the area in 1869.

Tip:
Ardent bridge enthusiasts seeking a unique perspective of New Bridge should consider embarking on a River Seine cruise with the "Vedettes du Pont-Neuf" company, conveniently located nearby. Their cruise offers excellent value for money, and you can even obtain a discount voucher from most tourist information offices in Paris.