Pont Couverts

About

Ponts Couverts, Strasbourg’s iconic covered bridges, are a trio of stone arches spanning the River Ill, flanked by four 13th‑century towers that once formed part of the city’s fortifications. Constructed between 1230 and 1250, the bridges were originally roofed to protect troops, a feature lost in 1784 but the name has endured. Overlooked by Vauban’s later ring of fortifications, the bridges today offer a picturesque walk through the historic Petite France quarter, connecting visitors with panoramic views of Strasbourg’s medieval heart. A must‑visit for history‑enthusiasts and architecture lovers alike, the Ponts Couverts are free to explore, though guided tours can be booked for a deeper dive into the site’s storied past.

At a glance

• Typical visit: about 30 minutes