832165-diaporama
832166-diaporama
Under the bridge that takes you to St. Christophe en Oisans today, there is a lovely bridge dating back to Roman times, called the Devil's Bridge, or the Pont du Diable. Legend has it that it was built by the devil. These days, it provides a lovely view over the stream for tourists.
About : Pont du Diable
The Devil's Bridge at St Christophe en Oisans is one of several dozen ancient bridges which, in local folklore, are said to have been built either by the devil, or with his help, or in some cases against his wishes. In Charles Joisten's book, "Fantastic creatures, the narrative heritage of Isère", we find, among others, the legend of the Devil's Bridge:
"The old Devil's Bridge, at St Christophe en Oisans, was built by the devil. In exchange, the inhabitants had promised him the first soul that passed over the bridge. But to trick him, they made a rat pass over it, followed by a cat, which was chased by a dog. The devil was furious, but had to make do with this prey". June 1962.
Location supplement
At the bottom of the village of Saint Christophe take the road towards "Bernardière" and 50 meters after the crossroads, the path starts behind the wooden house on the right side of the road. Go down into the woods on an old sunken path that leads to the Devil's Bridge. Continue on the path back to St Christophe on the road.