AvignonSaint Bénezet Bridge

Avignon’s most famous bridge Pont Saint Bénezet (Pont means bridge in French) is also known as the Pont d'Avignon. Today the Saint Bénezet Bridge is no more than a pier. Originally built in 1185 the Saint Bénezet Bridge was destroyed in 1226 then rebuilt, then destroyed again for good in 1669. Leaving what we see today.

Saint Bénezet Bridge was built on the inspiration of Benedict Benezet who local legend has it was told by god to build a bridge where the Saint Bénezet Bridge now stands. Unfortunately history was not kind to Saint Bénezet Bridge but music was. As the Saint Bénezet Bridge, is better known as the Pont d'Avignon thanks to the children’s song of the same name.

When the Saint Bénezet Bridge was finished it was considered an architectural wonder with its 22 arches (only four are still standing). It was also the only bridge between Lyon and the Mediterranean. This brought Avignon wealth through tolls.

During the Avignon Papacy the Saint Bénezet Bridge was often used by the pope. As homage the pope would pause as he passed the tome of Saint Benezet.

Today you can visit the Saint Bénezet Bridge and imagine what it must have been like in the middle ages. As with the Popes’ Palace there are audio guides in a number of languages that let you take a self guided tour. This means that you can visit at your own pace. If you are going to be visiting the Saint Bénezet Bridge and the Popes’ Palace then you should buy a combo ticket that are good for both. The Saint Bénezet Bridge is easy to find just look for signs marked ‘Pont Saint Bénezet - Pont d'Avignon‘.

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