Pont d'Avignon (Saint-Bénezet)

SPECIAL OPENING AT 10 A.M. ON SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27. According to legend, the bridge was built in the 12th century by a young shepherd from the Vivarais region named Bénézet, following a divine command. In reality, however, the bridge’s construction was an ongoing project that spanned several centuries. Hydrological changes in the river, resulting from climate shifts beginning in the 15th century, led to its destruction. It fell into disuse in the 17th century. The bridge was 920 meters long and featured 22 arches connecting the two banks of the Rhône. A source of legends and an iconic monument of the region, it was the subject of an unprecedented interdisciplinary research project from 2010 to 2016 that brought together an entire community of researchers under the auspices of Grand Avignon and the CNRS. Visitors can now admire the results of this research through museum exhibits and multimedia presentations that recreate the bridge in 3D within its landscape at different periods in history. PRACTICAL INFORMATION Ticket Office: Tickets for the bridge tour can be purchased online, at the Tourist Office reception desk, or on-site; however, access is available all day long, with no time restrictions. New generation of touchscreen audio guides in 12 languages: French, English, German, Italian, Spanish, Dutch, Japanese, Chinese, Russian, Polish, Portuguese, Korean (flags). Child-friendly versions available in French and English. IH: The monument is certified by “Tourisme & Handicap” for visitors with physical, intellectual, and hearing disabilities and offers audio guides adapted for the visually impaired (including Braille and audio description) as well as museum displays adapted for the hearing impaired (FALC). The monument has an elevator providing access for people with limited mobility. However, we encourage you to verify that it is in good working order before your visit by contacting our team at +33 (0)4 32 74 32 74. Thank you for your understanding. Dogs on a leash are permitted.