History
The Henri IV Bridge is a road bridge built over the Vienne River in Châtellerault, located in the Vienne department of France. Consisting of 9 arches, it spans a length of 180 meters and has a width of 21.80 meters. The bridge is constructed using stones from the Pinail stones and Tuffeau d'Antoigné Stones (white and porous limestone). It was built between 1571 and 1609 and was designed by architects Robert Blondin and Charles Androuet du Cerceau.
During World War II, the bridge faced the threat of destruction by the German army, but it was saved thanks to the efforts of Commissioner of Police and FFI Lieutenant Charles Bichat, as well as the negotiations led by Pierre-Marcel Wiltzer, who was the sub-prefect at that time. The bridge has been classified as a historical monument since 1913.
PROJECT
The Henri IV Bridge underwent a significant restoration campaign focused on the road surface of the bridge deck. The objectives of the Vienne department were to preserve and restore this historical structure in its original 19th-century design. Various tasks were required for this purpose, including waterproofing the structure, providing ventilation to the subsoil, restoring the stone facades, vaults, and surroundings of the bridge. Additionally, the road surface and pedestrian walkways were refurbished, for which the PROMPT natural cement was selected.
Application
The paving of the bridge was carried out using both existing and new cobblestones. After preparing the substrate and dampening the area to be jointed, a mortar made from PROMPT natural cement was applied.
Sustainable solution
The selection of natural cement PROMPT was based on its aesthetic qualities and durability.
Key information
14 months, with a scheduled delivery on April 1, 2023.
Participants
Client
Département de la Vienne
Project Manager
GFTK Architectes
Company
Colas Châtellerault
