What is the oldest bridge over the Seine in Paris?
The Pont Neuf is the oldest standing bridge across the river Seine in Paris, France. Its name, which was given to distinguish it from older bridges that were lined on both sides with houses, has remained after all of those were replaced. It stands by the western (downstream) point of the Île de la Cité, the island in the middle of the river that was the heart of medieval Paris.
What are your thoughts on this subject?
8 Comments
Chris Braid
Good question, poor and incomplete answer.
earlepg
Rafi Manory, Richard Boyle was correct when he said Pont Neuf means Bridge Nine.
earlepg
Pierre Poirier, Richard Boyle was correct when he said Pont Neuf means Bridge Nine.
Cari G.
Richard D. Boyle, I did too, I had to ask a Parisian friend as I'd never encountered neuf as a term for new.
Pierre Poirier
Remembered because i fou d it quite funny that the oldest bridge in Paris is called the new bridge
Rafi Manory
Tricky question as it means "new bridge"
Richard D. Boyle
My first trip to Paris in 1964, I just assumed that Pont Neuf meant Bridge #9. Fortunately, I never encountered a situation where it mattered.
Christopher Skinner
Contradiction in terms, the name being New Bridge