Restoration of Pont Neuf

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During the year 2000, portions of the longer arm of the Pont Neuf were being restored; this photo shows some of the work underway.

The outer stonework of the bridge has been restored several times, although the core of the bridge remains original. The shorter arm was finished in 1999; restoration of the longer arm was begun in 2000. The outer sculptures are removed and replaced with handmade, identical sculptures. The work is done very carefully so as not to unnecessarily damage or modify this national monument. In this photo, you can see the pavement stones partially removed, and the exposed stonework beneath. Part of an arch was being replaced, along with the decorative stones that covered it. If you look closely just below and to the left of the metal scaffold, you can see the tops of some of the carved stone faces that adorn the bridge.

Photographed on May 14, 2000.