"Covered bridges" but not actually covered, the Ponts Couverts are three bridges and four towers…read morethat were built in the 13th century as a defense of the city. There was originally a wooden roof but it was removed back in 1784 and the name remained. The nearby marker in French, German and English reads, "The covered bridges comprised the city's wester defenses from the 13th to 17th centuries and formed part of the Episcopal wall. Three of the bruick-built towers have survived - the Heinrichsturn, the Hans von Altheiumturm and the tour des Français (French tower). The spur-shaped parts in front of the bridges were built by Daniel Specklin in the 16th century and fitted with loopholes for guns to fire through. The bridges' galleries were protected by a tilting roof, whence the name, and closed off by a wooden wall contained arrow slits. The galleries were replaced in 1784 by wooden footbridges and in 1865 by the sandstone bridges that can be seen today. From 1880 to 1950, the area in front of the second tower was taken by the Mathis Baths, which were divided into two pools, separated by covered pontoons surrounded by a fence and fitted with changing rooms." [Review 16450 overall - 84 in France - 1958 of 2021.]

Translates to "covered bridges" but the actual covered bridge is directly across called the Barrage…read moreVauban. Perhaps at one point these bridges were covered but definitely not anymore. It's a scenic area surrounded by water and large towers that once defended the city back in the 13th century. It would be neat to go up the towers and get a better vantage point of the Petite France quarter; however, the towers are off limits and inaccessible. It's worth coming here at night when the reflection of the water makes for a gorgeous photo.

Cool spot stop & have a drink. Very busy place but wait staff are very cool. Nice selection of beer…read more& spirits. Mid to noisy level as it is a place to congregate & have a good time.