5 Popular Inhabited Bridges Around The World

The inhabited bridge is a structure that in addition to its basic function of bridging physical obstacles, such as a body of water, valley, or road, can also perform residential and commercial functions. These bridges are rare in the world and for that reason are very popular among tourists.

# Ponte Vecchio, Italy

The Ponte Vecchio is the oldest bridge in Florence. It is believed that a bridge already existed here during the Roman times. Its current appearance dates back to 1345 when it was built to replace a bridge which was destroyed by a flood. Houses were built on the bridge, a common practice in large European cities during the Middle Ages.

# Krämerbrücke, Germany

The Krämerbrücke is a bridge in the Thuringian city of Erfurt in Germany which is covered with inhabited, half timbered buildings on both sides. It is unique in Europe north of the Alps. The footbridge spans the Breitstrom, a branch of Gera River, connecting Benediktsplatz and Wenigemarkt. Currently mostly artisans and antique shops can be found in the 32 houses on Krämer Bridge. Except for the houses numbered 15, 20, 24 and 33, all houses are municipal property. The building was and is a touristic highlight and a must-see.

# Pont de Rohan, France

Pont de Rohan is inhabited bridge in Landerneau in north-western France. This bridge spans the river Élorn. Since 1336, when it was built, it was restored in 1510 by Jean II de Rohan (nobleman from 15th-century). Originally contained two stores, a mill and a prison. Today Pont de Rohan contains two lines of houses on both sides and represents a landmark of Landerneau (a commune in Brittany).

# Covered Bridge, Bulgaria

The Covered Bridge is, as the name suggests, a covered bridge in the town of Lovech, Bulgaria. The bridge crosses the Osam River, connecting the old and new town parts of Lovech, being possibly the most recognisable symbol of the town. After the bridge that then served the town was almost completely destroyed by a flood in 1872, the local police chief ordered the famous Bulgarian master builder Kolyu Ficheto to construct a new one. Ficheto personally chose the material for the wooden bridge. Each citizen of Lovech contributed to the building process, the poorer ones working themselves and the wealthier donating money and paying other workers. Building finished in 1874.

# Pont des Marchands, France

The Pont des Marchands is a historic bridge in Narbonne, southern France. It serves as a foundation for a row of houses and shops underneath which the Canal de la Robine runs through the old town. Its segmental arch has a span of 15 m (50 ft). In Roman times the structure featured as many as six arches.