The Pont de la Tournelle may not have the grandeur of some of Paris’ more famous bridges, but its unique design and historical significance make it a captivating landmark. Spanning the Seine between the Quai Saint-Bernard and Île Saint-Louis, this asymmetrical bridge stands out for its stark contrast to the surrounding landscape, with its prominent pylon crowned by a statue of Saint Geneviève watching over the city.
Centuries of Change
The site of the Pont de la Tournelle has hosted bridges since 1620. The first structure, a wooden bridge, connected the eastern bank of the Seine to Île Saint-Louis, but it was washed away twice by ice in 1637 and again in 1651. A more resilient stone bridge was erected in 1654, only to be demolished in 1918 following severe damage from natural disasters, most notably the great flood of 1910. The current bridge, built in 1928, combines the area’s historical continuity with modern design.
Architectural Asymmetry
The Pont de la Tournelle was intentionally designed with an asymmetrical structure to mirror the irregular landscape along this part of the Seine. Its main feature is a grand central arch flanked by two smaller arches on either side. The most striking element is the tall pylon on the left pier’s cutwater, crowned with a statue of Saint Geneviève, the patron saint of Paris, created by the celebrated sculptor Paul Landowski.
Origins of the Name
The name “Tournelle” harks back to a turret (or “tourelle”) that once stood on the fortress of Phillipe Auguste at the end of the 12th century. The turret’s presence influenced the naming of the bridge and reflects the long history of the area, which is steeped in layers of Parisian heritage.
A Hollywood Backdrop
From 1992 to 1998, the Pont de la Tournelle played a starring role in numerous scenes of Highlander: The Series. The bridge and the nearby Quai de la Tournelle provided a dramatic backdrop for the iconic television show, adding to its cinematic appeal.