Pont Valentré, Medieval arch bridge in Cahors, France
Pont Valentré is a medieval stone arch bridge in Cahors featuring six Gothic arches supported by three square towers standing about 40 meters high. The structure spans the Lot River and was originally designed as a fortified crossing with defensive capabilities.
Construction began in 1308 during the Hundred Years' War and took seventy years to complete the full structure. This extended timeline reflected the complexity of building a fortified crossing during a period of military conflict.
A small devil figure sits on the central tower, embodying a local legend about the architect's pact with Satan during construction. This sculpture became a symbol of the bridge's mysterious origins and remains a focal point for those exploring the structure's folklore.
The bridge is now open to pedestrians and cyclists, connecting both banks of the Lot River in the western section of Cahors. Walking across offers clear views of the town and river, making it an easy place to visit any time of day.
In the evening, the bridge lights up with colored illuminations that change depending on special occasions and celebrations throughout the year. These modern lighting effects add an unexpected contemporary dimension to the medieval structure.
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