Pont Couverts (Covered Bridges), Strasbourg (must see)

To protect the ancient city of Strasbourg, the Covered Bridges were constructed in the 1200s. There are three bridges crossing the River Ill. Additionally, there are four defensive towers set up between them.

In the late 1600s, the bridges were covered with wooden roofs. These were intended to cover soldiers and defenders who were stationed on the bridges during times of war. The covers were removed in 1784, but the name "Covered Bridges" has stuck.

While the bridges and towers remain, their task of defending the city was taken by the nearby the Vauban Dam. The Vauban Dam is the combination bridge and weir just west of the Covered Bridges.

If you want some postcard-perfect photos, stop by the Covered Bridges just after dark. The bridges and city are lit spectacularly. The best place to view and photograph the Covered Bridges is from near or on the Vauban Damn.