It is named after the “double denier” people had to pay to cross it. In 1515, the first bridge was built there, and François Ier ordered it to bring ill persons to the Hôtel Dieu, a big hospital. Demolished in 1709, it was replaced twice. The second time was in 1883 when the arch was made of cast iron (an alloy of iron and carbon).
Pont Au Double is one of Paris’s most famous and iconic bridges. It was constructed in 1832 and was designed by French engineer Jean-Baptiste Berlier. The bridge crosses the Seine River and is between two of the city’s oldest districts: the Latin Quarter to the north and Saint-Germain-des-Prés to the south.
Since its construction, Pont Au Double has become a popular tourist destination due to its unique architecture and stunning views of Paris.
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History of Pont Au Double
Pont Au Double opened in 1832 after being commissioned by King Louis Philippe I. The bridge was designed by Jean-Baptiste Berlier, who also designed several other bridges in Paris including Pont Alexandre III, Pont Neuf, and Pont Mirabeau.
The bridge’s name comes from “double,” which means two, referring to the two arches that carry it across the Seine River. The bridge is constructed of iron with granite pillars and supports on both sides. At each end, there are posts topped with lamp standards added later as modern touches but still maintain their original designs from when they were first erected over a century ago.
Pont Au Double quickly became a popular tourist destination due to its stunning views of Paris from either side of the riverbank. From here, you can see some of the city’s most famous monuments, such as Notre Dame de Paris, Les Invalides, Tour Eiffel, Arc de Triomphe, Place de la Concorde, and many more!
See Related: Musée national Jean-Jacques Henner
What To See At Pont Au Double?
One of the best things about visiting this iconic bridge is admiring its stunning architecture up close. On both sides of Pont au Double, there are sculptures depicting scenes such as two putti holding aloft a globe or an allegory of music playing instruments on one side and dancing on the other—all crafted out of bronze by renowned sculptor François Duret (3).
You can also admire intricate details like ornamental carvings on both sides of the balustrades or wrought iron accents, which add to its beauty even further!
In addition to admiring the statue work at Pont au Double, there are also plenty more interesting exhibits nearby, such as Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen (4), Musée National du Moyen Age (5), and Centre Pompidou (6). All three are within walking distance, so you’ll have no problem exploring these attractions too!
There are also nearby hotel options if you’d like to stay right near your beloved bridge – Hotel des Saints Peres (7) offers cozy rooms just steps away from your destination while Hotel du Quai Voltaire (8) provides luxury accommodation overlooking both Seine River banks!
See Related: Arc de Triomphe: Exploring the Iconic Paris Arch
Conclusion
Pont Au Double is an iconic landmark in Paris – one absolutely worth visiting if you’re ever lucky enough to be in town! It’s age-old architecture and modern touches will surely transport any traveler back in time as they soak up all that this incredible bridge has to offer.
Whether you want to admire its statues or take advantage of nearby museums/hotels – make sure not to miss out on this incredible piece of history on your next trip!