Pont d'Avignon
The Pont d'Avignon, officially known as the Pont Saint-Bénézet, is a medieval bridge in the city of Avignon, in southern France. Here are some detailed facts and historical context about this iconic structure:
History
- Construction: The bridge was initially built in the 12th century, starting in 1177 under the direction of Saint Bénézet, a young shepherd who, according to legend, was divinely inspired to build the bridge.
- Purpose: It was constructed to connect Avignon with Villeneuve-lès-Avignon, across the Rhône River, aiding in trade, travel, and pilgrimage routes.
- Design: The original bridge had 22 arches, stretching over 900 meters in length. It was one of the few bridges across the Rhône at the time.
Notable Events
- Damage and Repairs: Throughout its history, the bridge suffered numerous damages from flooding, military actions, and natural wear. It was frequently repaired, but by the 17th century, only half of it remained functional.
- Abandonment: After a severe flood in 1669, the bridge was abandoned, leaving the remaining four arches as they stand today.
Cultural Significance
- Folk Song: The bridge is immortalized in the famous French folk song "Sur le Pont d'Avignon," where dancers are said to dance on the bridge, although historically, the dance probably took place under the bridge due to its narrow structure.
- UNESCO: The Pont d'Avignon is part of the Historic Center of Avignon, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1995.
Current State
- Preservation: Today, the bridge is a major tourist attraction, and efforts have been made to preserve its historical significance. Visitors can walk on a portion of the bridge, and there's a small chapel dedicated to Saint Bénézet at the end of the accessible part.
- Visitors: It attracts millions of visitors each year, offering panoramic views of the Rhône River, the city, and the Palais des Papes.
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