The Pont Neuf, meaning "New Bridge," is the oldest standing bridge across the river Seine in Paris. Despite its name, its construction was ordered by King Henry III in 1578, with the first stone laid by his successor, King Henry IV, in 1587. The bridge was inaugurated in 1607, marking a significant milestone in Parisian urban development.

It was considered revolutionary for its time due to several architectural and social innovations. Unlike earlier bridges, it was the first stone bridge in Paris built without houses lining its sides, offering pedestrians unobstructed views of the river and the city. This design also improved traffic flow and sanitation. Furthermore, it featured wide sidewalks, known as trottoirs, which were a novelty and became popular public promenades.

The bridge spans the Seine at the western tip of the Île de la Cité, connecting the Left Bank (the 6th arrondissement) with the Right Bank (the 1st arrondissement). It is composed of two separate, slightly angled stone spans: one with five arches linking the island to the Left Bank, and another with seven arches connecting it to the Right Bank.

A notable feature is the equestrian statue of King Henry IV, located on the bridge's terre-plein (platform) on the Île de la Cité. The original statue, erected in 1614, was destroyed during the French Revolution. The present bronze statue is a faithful reconstruction completed in 1818. The bridge's stone corbels are decorated with over three hundred distinct grimacing masks, each depicting a different character from the period's society.

Throughout its history, the Pont Neuf has been a central stage for Parisian life, hosting markets, festivals, and public gatherings. Its robust construction has allowed it to survive for over four centuries with only essential maintenance and several restorations, the most comprehensive of which took place between 1994 and 2007. It is classified as a monument historique and remains a vital transportation artery and an iconic symbol of Paris.