Morlaix Viaduct Size report

The old Morlaix Viaduct (French: Viaduc de Morlaix) is located in the small town of Morlaix in Finistère, northwestern France. Morlaix is located at the mouth of an estuary protected by the foothills of the Monts d'Arrée. This pretty French town has preserved many magnificent 16th-century mansions.

The landmark of the city, the Viaduct of Morlaix, a beautiful railway bridge height of 58 meters, solemnly overlooks the old town and the port. Now, as a protected historical monument, the viaduct is a part of the current urban landscape.

This viaduct has witnessed historical changes in the past centuries. Although the viaduct of Morlaix was not bombed during World War II, the explosion caused damage to the bridge, and 80 people were killed. Let's find out more facts about the size and structure of this bridge.

Size And Structure of Morlaix Viaduct

Morlaix was formed as a town during the Roman period, and the city's history began in the middle of the Middle Ages. The Paris-Brest railway passing through Morlaix has become an important architectural sight in the area. The Viaduct Morlaix in Finistère was built from 1861 to 1863 and put into use in 1865; designed by the Chemins de Fer de l'Ouest and is situated on the Paris-Brest. During daylight hours, you can walk along the lower level for a great view of the town; the viaduct is lit up at night.

The structure was built in the city to serve the station located on the city's heights; it spans the eponymous river, which digs a valley in the center. Its construction required 11000 m³ of cut granite, 52 000 m³ of rubble, and 43 tons of iron, which was a very large project at the time.

Measurements of Morlaix Viaduct

The Morlaix Viaduct measures 292 meters in length and rises 62 meters high above the ground. It has two levels with nine arches on the lower level and 14 arches on the top level. The thickness of the cell varies from 11 to 19 meters.

Final Words

Morlaix flourished from the early manufacture and trade of linen fabrics, then tobacco factories in the 17th century; the city was built on a slope overlooking the estuary. Its rich architectural heritage, cultural dynamism, and typical coastal setting make it a city of art and history; a viaduct built in 1864 with a height of about 60 meters highlights the picturesque scenery. You can climb up the Venelle de la Roche lane to access the viaduct entrance at the west end, and consider walking up this delightful lane afterward for views over the town. From the port of Morlaix, you can explore the bay, one of the most beautiful bays in the UK.