Ponts Couverts
Ponts Couverts features on the Gingerguide audio walk through Strasbourg. Give it roughly ~30 min: enough to look, hear a two to three minute story on the spot, and ask the AI guide whatever the story leaves open.
- Type bridge
- Suggested visit ~30 min
- Strasbourg Strasbourg guide
About Ponts Couverts
Three medieval bridges and four defensive towers guarding the western approach to Strasbourg, best viewed from the rooftop terrace of Barrage Vauban.
The Ponts Couverts, literally "covered bridges", are three consecutive bridges spanning the four branches of the River Ill at the western tip of Strasbourg's Grand Île, each defended by a massive square medieval tower. Despite their name, they have not had roofs since the 18th century; they were once covered with timber roofing as part of the city's defensive system. The towers, however, are original: the four towers date from the 14th century, when Strasbourg was an independent free city of the Holy Roman Empire and invested heavily in fortifications. Each tower was once independent, connected by a drawbridge, and served as a prison as well as a military lookout. The Ponts Couverts represent the last remaining fragment of the city's medieval fortifications and are listed as historic monuments. Today the bridges are pedestrian walkways lined with locals enjoying the view, and the towers are occasionally open to visitors. The best view of the whole ensemble is from the dam platform of Barrage Vauban, a short walk to the west.
Did you know? The four towers were each named after the guilds responsible for defending them: the Tower of the Butchers, the Tower of the Tanners, the Tower of the Hatmakers, and the Tower of the Cheese Merchants.
How long is a visit to Ponts Couverts?
Set aside roughly ~30 min for Ponts Couverts. That covers a good look and the narrated story, and because you set the pace you can always stay on.
Is Ponts Couverts worth your time?
Ponts Couverts is among the 18 narrated highlights the Gingerguide team chose for Strasbourg, so it is worth a look. Hear the story for the context, then ask the AI guide for anything more.
Nearby stops in Strasbourg
Hear the story of Ponts Couverts
Preview the Strasbourg tour free in the Gingerguide app.