Pont Neuf

Contrary to its name, this is the oldest bridge in Paris: it dates back to 1607 and with its 12 arches represents the most scenic connection of the islands with the Seine bank.

Like Notre Dame with the gargoyles, the Pont Neuf is also studded with grotesque statues representing various categories of the city such as pickpockets, dentists, idlers or barbers. Unfortunately, they can only be admired from below, on the riverside or by taking a cruise on the Seine.

Thanks to the beauty of its proportions, the statues and the particular conformation divided into two parts and 232 metres long in total, it has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Pont Neuf has been used several times by artists as a location for original installations:

• in 1963 the artist Nonda exhibited an immense steel and wood Trojan horse inside which he lived for several months.
• in 1984 the Japanese fashion designer Kenzo covered it entirely with flowers .
• in 1985 the environmentalist sculptor Christo wrapped it completely in paper.