The Pont de Bir-Hakeim

(Photo : ENPC)

An initial metal footbridge known as the “Passerelle de Passy” was built on either side of Ile des Cignes in 1878. This was replaced for the 1900 Universal Exhibition by a combined road and rail bridge. The idea for the bridge came from Louis Biette, who was assisted by the contractors Dayde and Pille. The city architect Jean-Camille Formige was put in charge of the bridge’s decoration.

The Pont de Bir-Hakhim consists of two metal structures each with three cantilever spans that are separated by a masonry monument on the upstream tip of Ile des Cygnes. The metro viaduct on the bridge is supported by a series of slender columns. The highly ornamental decoration on these columns was unfortunately removed when the structure

The Pont de Bir-Hakeim

(photo : ENPC)

was strengthened in the 1930s. The bridge was known as the Viaduc de Passy until 1949 when its name was changed to the Pont de Bir-Hakeim in commemoration of General Koenig’s victory in Libya in 1942.

Upper level: 7.30m : Metro viaduct: metal deck supported by cast iron pillars 6m apart. Road bridge: two three span structures, with spans of 30m, 54m 30m over the large arm of the river and 24m, 42m and 24m over the small arm of the river. These structures are connected by a monumental tower (abutment shared by both bridges) on Ile des Cygnes. The bridges consist of ten variable inertia arched beams. The central spans are cantilevered.

The Pont de Bir-Hakeim

(Photo : ENPC)

Decoration: The Pont de Bir-Hakeim is decorated with copious artwork. There are cast iron motifs consisting of grotesque masks and clams. Gustave Michel was responsible for the decorations on the piers. These consist of two groups of figures, which are reproduced four times. One group represents mariners and the other shows blacksmiths and riveters. The sculpture on the masonry structure on the Ile des Cygnes abutment showing science and work is by Coutan and that showing Electricity and Trade is by Injalbert.