Pont Saint-Bénézet
Pont Saint-Bénézet, Medieval arch bridge in Avignon, France
Description
The Pont Saint-Bénézet is a medieval stone crossing over the Rhône in Avignon, now reduced to four arch segments. The construction displays Romanesque workmanship with massive piers that once supported a total length of roughly 900 meters.
History
The crossing originated in 1177 following the initiative of a shepherd named Bénézet, who claimed divine instruction to build it. Repeated flooding in the 17th century destroyed large sections, until repairs were finally abandoned.
Culture
The structure gained lasting fame through a folk song that describes dancing on it, though performers actually danced beneath the arches on the island below. The tune remains one of the most recognized children's songs across France.
Practical
Access is through the Palais des Papes with combined tickets covering several monuments. Audio guides in multiple languages explain the construction and help with orientation along the remaining span.
Did you know?
A small Romanesque chapel sits on the third pier and once held the relics of Bénézet, the young shepherd who prompted the construction. His body was later moved to the church of Saint-Didier in the city.
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Avignon in southeastern France offers photographers many historical subjects to capture. The Papal Palace displays medieval architecture with large stone walls and Gothic details. The Saint-Bénézet bridge crosses the Rhône river and stands as a recognizable landmark of the city. From Rocher des...
Avignon holds more than its most famous sights. This route moves through churches, monasteries, and gardens that often go unnoticed by passing travelers. The path begins at Chapelle Saint-Ruf, a Romanesque structure, and leads to Rocher des Doms, where views open across the Rhône. The Hôtel des...
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So well known for that song we had in our heads as children! The bridge itself is not very spectacular, but it's still worth a visit!
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