Pont des Trous, Nord Pas De Calais Travel Guide

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Discover the iconic Pont des Trous in Tournai, a medieval bridge and water gate that stands as a testament to the city's rich history and resilience.

The Pont des Trous (Bridge of Holes) is a remarkable medieval water gate and bridge in Tournai, Belgium, dating back to the 13th century. Part of the city's old defensive walls, it spans the Escaut River and is a striking example of medieval military architecture.

A brief summary to Pont des Trous

Quai Donat Casterman, Tournai, Arrondissement of Tournai, 7500, BE
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Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Pont des Trous.

Visit the bridge in the early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
Take a walk along the riverbanks to enjoy scenic views of the bridge and the surrounding area.
Explore the nearby historical sites, such as the Cathedral of Notre-Dame, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

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Getting There

Walking

From the Tournai train station, exit the building and head west on Rue du Bois towards Rue de la Station. Continue straight for about 500 meters until you reach the roundabout. At the roundabout, take the second exit onto Rue de la République. Follow this street for another 400 meters until you reach the intersection with Quai des Allies. Turn right onto Quai des Allies and walk along the river for approximately 300 meters. You will see Pont des Trous ahead on your left, located at Quai Donat Casterman. The walk from the train station is approximately 15 minutes.
Public Transport

To reach Pont des Trous by public transport, take a train to Tournai Station. From Tournai Station, you can take a bus to the city center. Bus lines 1 or 2 will take you closer to the bridge. Alight at the 'Pont des Trous' stop, which is a short walk to the bridge located at Quai Donat Casterman. A single bus ticket costs between €1 and €3.
Car

If you are driving, navigate to Tournai and follow signs for the city center. Set your GPS to Quai Donat Casterman, 7500 Tournai. Parking is available nearby at public parking areas. Parking fees range from €1 to €2 per hour. Free parking is available at Esplanade de l'Europe parking lot and Quai Andreï Sakharov.

Discover more about Pont des Trous

The Pont des Trous, or Bridge of Holes, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Tournai, Belgium, a city brimming with history. This impressive structure, dating back to the late 13th century, is a vestige of medieval military architecture and once served as a crucial part of the city's defensive system.Originally constructed as a water gate, the Pont des Trous formed part of the second surrounding wall of Tournai, featuring three arches and defensive towers on each bank. These towers, called Bourdiel tower (left bank) and Thieulerie tower (right bank), were built separately. The bridge protected the course of the Scheldt River as it flowed through the city, with portcullises that could be lowered to control river traffic and defend against attack.Over the centuries, the Pont des Trous has witnessed numerous sieges and battles. In 1940, during World War II, the retreating English troops destroyed the central arch. When the bridge was rebuilt in 1948, the arches were raised to allow larger boats to pass.Today, the Pont des Trous stands as a symbol of Tournai's resilience and rich history. Visitors can stroll along the Quai Donat Casterman, taking in the views of the bridge and the Escaut River. The bridge is particularly beautiful in the evening when it is illuminated.