Pont Saint-Bénézet in Avignon

 Chiugoran, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons 

11 April 2021  |  Tourism, UNESCO

Pont Saint-Bénézet in Avignon

Also called Pont d'Avignon, this famous medieval bridge was built in the 11th century over the Rhône, between Villeneuve-lès-Avignon and the city of Avignon. Only four arches, the gatehouse and the Saint-Nicolas chapel on its second pillar have survived. They can be seen at the end of Avignon.

Iconic symbol of the city

The bridge is one of the main symbols of the city and even inspired the famous nursery rhyme “Sur le pont d’Avignon”.

The arches of the bridge have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as have the cathedral and the Palais des Papes, also in Avignon.

According to legend, the bridge was built in the 12th century by a young shepherd from Vivarais, Bénézet. But in reality, the construction of the bridge was a permanent construction site that spanned several centuries with much destruction linked to climate change.

Open to visitors 7 days a week

Tickets for the visit of the bridge can be purchased online, at the Tourist Office or on site. Access is all day long with no timetable obligation. Audio guide in 12 languages with synchronized film commentary. Possibility of having a special audioguided visit for children and the visually impaired. Address: Boulevard de la Ligne - 84000, Avignon

Activities and guided tours nearby

  • Urban experience, urban arts and street art

  • Nature experience: walk and introduction to picking wild plants

  • Storytelling tour, the little-known treasures of Avignon

  • Guided tour, Avignon in the time of the Popes

  • Guided tour, Avignon at a glance

  • Find the complete list of activities directly on the website.

Official website: http://www.avignon-pont.com/fr

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Lee Jones

I am the property photographer for Pure France and travel throughout France meeting property owners. I come from a background of sales in the luxury brands Bang & Olufsen and Swarovski Crystal.

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