TELLBY
English

Pont Neuf

pont Neuf · 파리 6구

8 story sections10 min 13 s in all

bridge across the Seine in Paris

History & cultureBY TELLBY

Contents

8 sections · tap a section for its opening lines
  1. 1Orientation1:25

    Welcome to the Pont Neuf, a structure that embodies the paradox of Paris. Its name translates to 'New Bridge,' yet it is the oldest bridge in the city still standing. …

    Listen in the app
  2. 2The Statue of Henri IV: The People's King1:18

    In the center of the bridge, where it crosses the Île de la Cité, stands a grand equestrian statue of King Henri IV. He was one of France's most beloved monarchs, known as 'Le Bon Roi Henri' (The Good King Henri) for his concern…

    Listen in the app
  3. 3The Mascarons: The Faces of the Bridge1:17

    One of the most distinctive features of the Pont Neuf is the collection of 381 stone masks, or 'mascarons,' that decorate the cornices. These faces, each unique, represent various figures from mythology, as well as caricatures of…

    Listen in the app
  4. 4The Semi-Circular Bays and Pedestrian Comfort1:14

    As you walk, notice the semi-circular bays, or 'exedrae,' that project over each of the bridge's pillars. These were originally designed as small shops for merchants, allowing them to sell their wares without obstructing the flow…

    Listen in the app
  5. 5The Oldest Stone and Engineering of the Arches1:13

    The engineering of the Pont Neuf's arches was a masterclass in 16th-century technology. Built of solid limestone, the arches are designed to withstand the tremendous pressure of the Seine, which has a history of dramatic flooding. …

    Listen in the app
  6. 6The Vedettes du Pont Neuf and River Life1:09

    Looking down from the western side of the bridge, you can see the departure point for the Vedettes du Pont Neuf river cruises. This spot, located just below the Square du Vert-Galant, is one of the most popular places to begin a…

    Listen in the app
  7. 7View Toward the Louvre and Samaritaine1:15

    From the northern end of the bridge, the view is dominated by two architectural icons: the Louvre Palace and the Samaritaine department store. The Samaritaine, with its Art Nouveau and Art Deco facades, was named after an ancient…

    Listen in the app
  8. 8Closing1:22

    As we finish our crossing of the Pont Neuf, we have traversed more than just a river; we have walked through the inaugural moment of modern Paris. This 'New Bridge' changed the way Parisians interacted with their city, inviting…

    Listen in the app

What is Pont Neuf?

Pont Neuf is a place in 파리 6구 with 8 story sections on Tellby. You can read the opening of each section on this page; the sound plays in the app.

Key facts
Location파리 6구
TypeActivity
Story sections8
Total length10 min 13 s in all
Text languageEnglish
Coordinates48.8575, 2.3417
Last updated

Nearby places

within a 5-minute walk
Listen in the app