Pont Saint-Bénézet
Pont Saint-Bénézet, Medieval arch bridge in Avignon, France
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Location: Avignon
Inception: 1177
Architects: Jean de Tensanges
Official opening: 1185
Width: 4 m
Made from material: stone
Address: 29, quai de la Ligne
GPS coordinates: 43.95389,4.80500
Latest update: December 4, 2025 23:03
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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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