The Pont du Garigliano stands as Paris’s highest bridge, connecting the 15th and 16th arrondissements and symbolizing both modernity and memory. Named after the pivotal 1944 Battle of Garigliano during the Italian Campaign of World War II, the bridge is an essential route for both vehicular traffic and pedestrians, seamlessly linking the bustling Boulevard du Général Martial Valin with Boulevard Exelmans.
From Viaduct to Icon
Before the current structure, the site was home to the Viaduc d’Auteuil, an impressive two-level masonry bridge built in 1863. This viaduct allowed trains of the Petite Ceinture railway on its upper deck and road traffic below. Despite surviving two wars, the viaduct couldn’t keep up with growing transportation needs, and in 1958, it was demolished to make way for the Pont du Garigliano. This new bridge, inaugurated in 1966, was the work of architect Davy and engineer Thenault, designed to manage the city’s increasing traffic while offering an elegant and robust design.
A Modern Marvel
Spanning 209 meters in length, the Pont du Garigliano is a minimalist metal structure, supported by only two piles. Its central span stretches 93 meters, with side spans of 58 meters each. Built with six metal beams and a reinforced concrete deck, it’s a masterpiece of mid-20th century engineering. Its elevation of 18 meters above the Seine makes it a distinctive landmark and a practical passage for river traffic below.
Art and Tribute
In addition to its functional significance, the bridge holds cultural value. Two plaques commemorate the 1944 battle, while for several years, the avant-garde artwork Le Téléphone by Frank Gehry and Sophie Calle added an artistic touch. Located on the downstream side of the bridge, this whimsical phone booth sculpture was part of the inauguration of the nearby Tramway des Maréchaux.