Updated July 2026

If you have ever seen a picture of the famous Pont d’Avignon (officially the Pont Saint-Bénézet), you have probably noticed the obvious: it doesn’t go all the way across the Rhône River.

While it is one of the most iconic structures in Southern France, (immortalized in the famous French nursery rhyme “Sur le pont d’Avignon”), the history and reality of the bridge is far more fascinating.

A Brief History of a Stubborn Bridge

The bridge was built around 1180 AD. When it was built, it was the only fixed river crossing between Lyon and the Mediterranean Sea. It also formed the only river crossing between the Comtat Venaissin (an enclave controlled by the Pope in Avignon), and France proper under the authority of the King of France. Over the centuries, the bridge suffered repeated destruction from floods, was rebuilt multiple times, and eventually, the city decided to abandon the struggle against the river’s powerful currents in the 17th century.

This medieval bridge was once a marvel of engineering, featuring 22 stone arches and stretching over 900 meters. Today, only four of the original arches remain, standing proudly as they push out near the middle of the river, disconnected from the opposite bank.

Why Visit in 2026?

Walking out onto those remaining arches is a strange and surreal experience. It feels as though you are stepping back in time with a piece of history.

• The View: Standing on the edge of the bridge offers one of the best views of the Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes) rising above the city walls. It’s a great vantage point for photographers to capture medieval stonework and the modern French landscape at the same time.
• The Chapel: Don’t miss the small Romanesque chapel of Saint-Nicolas. It is located on the second pier of the bridge. It continues to serve as a reminder of the bridge’s importance as a trade route and a place of pilgrimage.

Quick Travel Tips for Your Visit:

• Best Time to Go: Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best light. You’ll also avoid the intense Provence sun and the midday tour crowds.
• Combine with the Palace: Most tickets allow you to visit both the Palais des Papes and the bridge. It’s an easy, short flat walk between the two historic sites.
• The “Best” View: The very best view is from the Rhone River, on a river cruise ship (from where my pictures were taken). From land, walk across the bridge to the Île de la Barthelasse. From the riverbank on the island, you can see the bridge extending into the water. This is the classic view that has inspired artists for centuries.

Have you ever visited a famous landmark that turned out to be completely different than what you expected? Share your experiences in the comments below.