In the hinterland there are many old constructions that still serve their purpose as a traffic route today. This crested bridge with a single arch spans the torrent at a narrow point.

Site history

There are no documents whatsoever for this bridge, like for many comparable objects far back in the valleys. Its shape and its important function in opening up the pastures and forests on the left bank of the Vançon allow its construction to be dated at least in the 17th century. But it can also be much older.

A stone has been embedded in the stone parapet, in which engraved letters can be seen, which have not yet been deciphered.

Queen Joan of Naples was a 14th-century personality. She was actually in 1379 in the village of Salignac, which is not far to the south.

Description

The wide arch with archivolt is supported on solid bedrock on both sides of the river. The bridge rises more than 10 meters high over the creek.

It served as an important link to the now-abandoned village of Saint-Symphorien. Animals were herded across the bridge into the then important Dromon valley, and timber came back to the main valley from the dense forests the same way.

Access by public transport

There is no viable public transport to the site.

Access by car

Coming from Sisteron, head south towards Volonne. In Saint-Puy we turn onto the D217 road to Vilhosc. After this small hamlet, continue for another 4 kilometers of winding roads until you see the bridge when you turn into the Vançon valley.

Coming from the A51 motorway, take the Sisteron Centre exit, at the roundabout follow directions for Entrepierres and shortly after for Vilhosc. From there continue as described above.

The hike Grotte du Trou de l'Argent starts not far from the bridge.