Old Exe Medieval Bridge Exeter Devon
by Richard Brookes
Title
Old Exe Medieval Bridge Exeter Devon
Artist
Richard Brookes
Medium
Photograph
Description
The Old Exe Bridge is the ruined medieval bridge in Exeter, Devon, SW England, UK.
According to web sources:
The stone bridge was built between 1190-1210 and it is thought it originally had up to 18 arches. It was the main entrance into the old walled city across the River Exe and marshland. It is believed to be one of the best preserved surviving examples of its kind in England.
The bridge was finally closed in 1778 when a new bridge was built nearby. It was then part demolished and buried and incorporated under other buildings.
During the Second World War, German bombs, part of the Baedeker raids, once again exposed the old bridge. As part of the post war rebuilding of Exeter and the new road system the old bridge was further excavated and preserved as a listed and scheduled ancient monument in the park area that can be seen today.
It does feel incongruous now being encircled by modern buildings and a busy ring road. The photo was part desaturated to reduce the distracting effect of modern items on the structure.
The bridge itself has been repaired several times during its lifetime, most notably after storms in 1286 and 1284. Repairs have been dated by the different stone blocks used.
The bridge also had timber framed buildings along it, now long gone. However the remains of the medieval church tower of St Edmund the Martyr also built on it, can be seen.
Exeter rose to prominence under Roman Occupation when it grew from a legionary fort and was known as Isca Dumnonorium.
Uploaded
September 21st, 2022
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