Recouvrance Bridge

The Recouvrance bridge

A spectacular stop on the Brest audio-guided tour, the Recouvrance lift bridge links the city centre to the historic district of Recouvrance, on the other side of the Penfeld, the river that crosses Brest before flowing into the roadstead.

A European record

Inaugurated in 1954, the Recouvrance bridge was long the largest lift bridge in Europe. It is equipped with a system that raises the deck, the central part of the bridge, to let boats enter and leave the port. A technical feat that has become one of the emblems of the city.

What to see

From the bridge, enjoy a superb view of the castle of Brest and the Tanguy tower, on the other bank. If you are lucky, you may witness a raising of the deck, an always impressive moment that punctuates the life of the port.

Practical information

The Recouvrance bridge spans the Penfeld, between the centre of Brest and the Recouvrance district. Freely accessible, it can be crossed on foot at any time; the deck is raised according to the needs of navigation.

When was the Recouvrance bridge inaugurated ?

It was inaugurated in 1954 and was long the largest lift bridge in Europe.

Why is the bridge deck raised ?

To let boats enter and leave the port while crossing the Penfeld.