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Bristol Avon Bridge

In the civil parish of Bristol.
In the historic county of Gloucestershire.
Modern Authority of Bristol; City of.
1974 county of Avon.
Medieval County of Gloucestershire.

OS Map Grid Reference: ST59007291
Latitude 51.45368° Longitude -2.59143°

Bristol Avon Bridge has been described as a certain Fortified Bridge.

There are no visible remains.

Description

Bristol Bridge, built in stone in 1247-8, probably on the site of an earlier timber bridge, acquired a superstructure of houses and shops, and, from 1361, a chapel. An oak sill 40 feet long, discovered in 1747 embedded in the masonry, was thought to be part of thee pre-1247 timber structure. The bridge was demolished and replaced in 1768. (PastScape 1008177)
The Chapel of Our Lady of the Assumption, dedicated in 1361, stood in the centre of Bristol bridge. Its remains were probably destroyed by a fire of 1646. (PastScape 1007680)

The Chapel of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary was 75 feet by 21 feet. It stretched right across the centre of the bridge and out beyond it on either side, supported on extended piers. There was even a bell-tower. At street level was a crypt used by the Council for meetings. On the next floor was the chapel, which ran over a tunnel-like gateway with gates at either end. This magnificent structure was finished in 1361. It was closed at the Reformation along with other bridge chapels, which were seen as superstious. The building was converted to other purposes until finally taken down. (Jean Manco 2005)

The bridge is built over wth houses just as London bridge is, but its not so bigg or Long-there are 4 arches here. (Celia Fiennes)
Comments

Outside and to the south of the circuit of the original town walls, although within the circuit of, the possibly defensive, Law Ditch, of the Redcliffe suburb, south of the bridge.
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This record last updated 26/07/2017 09:21:29

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