The Bridge of Avignon, also called Pont Saint-Bénézet, is a medieval bridge that once carried traffic across the Rhône to Villeneuve-lès-Avignon. Only four of its original 22 arches remain, so the walk ends on a stone stub in the middle of the river. The visit is short, but the walk on the arches, the river views and the old city walls behind you make it a worthwhile stop. A small chapel stands on the bridge, and an audioguide is included with the entrance fee.
From a shepherd's visions to the flood of 1668
Legend says a shepherd named Bénézet had visions urging him to build a bridge across the Rhône. The bridge was completed in 1185 and linked Avignon with Villeneuve-lès-Avignon. It was about 900 metres long and had 22 arches.
Floods damaged the bridge again and again, and it was rebuilt several times. After the flood of 1668, only four arches were left, and the far side was cut off in the middle of the river. The bridge was not rebuilt after that. Today the bridge is part of the historic centre of Avignon, which UNESCO lists as a World Heritage Site.
What is left and what to see
The walk takes you onto the four remaining arches, with the Rhône flowing below. A small chapel named after Saint Bénézet stands on the bridge.
An audioguide is included with the entrance fee, and it covers the history and the legend of the bridge. Some visitors find the audioguide and the extra rooms inside add enough to the visit to make it longer than the walk itself.
The song and the dance
The folk song "Sur le pont d'Avignon" is linked to this bridge. The first version of the song is said to come from the composer Pierre Certon, who published it in the 16th century. The version sung today was written for an opera in the mid-19th century.
The tradition of dancing on the bridge is still part of a visit. Many people dance a round on the ruins, as the song suggests, and the stone surface makes it an easy place to stop and join in.
Views and how to visit
Some of the best views of the bridge are from outside. The view from the Rocher des Doms park is free, as is the one from Pont Édouard Daladier. The towpath on the Île de la Barthelasse, along the chemin des Berges, also gives a clear view of the bridge and the city.
Many visitors think the bridge looks better from across the river than it does from the arches. If you visit on a hot day, plan for shade and water, since the bridge is open to the sun.
FAQ
Is there an entrance fee for the Bridge of Avignon?
Yes, you pay to walk onto the bridge. The entrance fee includes an audioguide that covers the history and legend of the bridge.
How long do you need at the Bridge of Avignon?
A visit takes about 20 minutes. The extra rooms and information inside can make it longer.
Can you see the bridge without paying?
Yes. Views of the bridge are free from Rocher des Doms park, Pont Édouard Daladier and the towpath on the Île de la Barthelasse.
Is the Bridge of Avignon wheelchair accessible?
The site has a wheelchair accessible entrance and a wheelchair accessible parking lot.
