Pont du Roc: A Medieval Marvel

The Pont du Roc, a remarkable medieval bridge, graces the entrance of Castellane, guiding travelers towards Grasse. For centuries, it served as the sole bridge spanning the Verdon River, rendering Castellane a strategically vital location. Today, it provides breathtaking vistas of the Verdon valley, inviting visitors to step back in time and appreciate its historical significance.The bridge's origins trace back to ancient times, with mentions of a bridge house, possibly a hospice, dating to 1252. The current structure was erected in the early 1400s by master masons Jean de Torr, Pierre Serralher, and Sauveur Arnaud from Moustiers, in collaboration with Jean Felizo, a carpenter and stonemason from Orange. Construction spanned from 1404 to 1407.Throughout its existence, the Pont du Roc has undergone numerous consolidation efforts. In 1697, Laurent Vallon, architect to the States of Provence, reinforced the arch with 14 iron bars. Additional repairs and masonry work were carried out in the 18th and 19th centuries. A pipe from the Robion spring was attached to the parapet in 1928 to supply water to Castellane. In the mid-20th century, four masonry buttresses were added to the downstream left bank. Major work in the late 20th century included the installation of steel tie rods. More tie rods were added in 2008.Since 1982, the bridge has been closed to traffic, with a new structure built downstream. Architecturally, the Pont du Roc features a single arch with a 34-meter span and a height of 15 meters. Its total length is 43 meters. The arch has a double row of keystones.