Our time in Avignon came to an end on October 8th, when we headed north to Germany to visit our niece, her husband and children. We’re now enjoying some time in Paris before heading back to the US on Tuesday. However, I still have much more to share about France, starting with Le Pont d’Avignon, another interesting place to visit with a UNESCO World Heritage Site designation.
The first bridge on the site was a wooden bridge built in the late 1100s and was called Pont Saint Bénézet, named for a young shepherd. Legend has it that young Bénézet was quite influential for his age and collected funds for the bridge through his motivational orations. Even though he established a group to begin work on the bridge, the work did not begin until after his death.
Sadly, the bridge was burned during the Siege of Avignon in 1226. Construction on a new bridge was attempted several times, but the foundation was never completed due to flooding. After multiple attempts over several centuries, city officials gave up and left the bridge as it is today.
The bridge has inspired songs as well, beginning in the 15th century. Some of you may remember the children’s song, Sur le Pont d’Avignon which was composed by Adolphe Adam in 1853, and is probably the most well known.
The bridge and gatehouse are open to visitors for a small admission fee.
There are fabulous views of the bridge and surrounding area from Le Jardin Rocher des Doms, a beautiful park located on a rocky hill not far from the Palais des Papes.
There is a small vineyard in the park called les Clos de la Vigne du Palais des Papes. It was planted in 1997 and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The first photo below was taken in mid-September, the second, in early October. The leaves seemed to change to their autumn colors quite quickly!
There was once a Roman settlement in the area, and in the middle ages, it was a popular location for shepherds to bring their flocks. Today, it is a beautiful place to wander and enjoy the views of the city and beyond.
I still have more to share about Avignon in the coming weeks. If you’re interested, here are the links to my previous posts about this historic city:
I hope you enjoyed reading about the bridge and park. As always, I would love to hear from you, so please leave a message if you’re so inclined.
Wishing you grand adventures,
Tricia
Travels Through My Lens 
So much history and so many stories for one single bridge. And such beautiful views from it too! The park looks like a lovely place to wander around and enjoy the scenery. Safe travels back to the US next week.
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Yes, the history is so interesting. Thanks so much; Avignon is lovely.
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It was interesting to read the history of the unfinished bridge – and I like Terry’s sketch. I had to google the children’s song (unknown to me), but I suspect the melody may be in my head all day now. Such lovely photos Tricia – Avignon is so beautiful through your lens.
It must feel unreal for you guys to go back to the US — and this time not just to visit, but to stay. I wish you and Terry all the best.
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I thought the history was quite interesting too. Well, it is a sweet melody🎶! Thanks so much Corna, I’m so glad you enjoyed the photos, and thanks also for your well wishes for safe travels. I hope you’re having a lovely day!
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I love your beautifully captured photos and the wonderful sketch from Terry – he’s so good at what he does. I love how Avignon oozes history and culture, it is such a well-preserved jewel of Provence therefore I look forward to reading more about it. Enjoy Paris and have a safe journey back to the US. Thanks for sharing, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Thanks so much Aiva; Terry is very grateful for your compliment as well. I love your description that Avignon oozes history; that’s spot on! Thanks again, Paris is lovely right now. I hope you’re having a lovely day as well.
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🥰🥰🥰
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I always learn so much scrolling through your postings of beautiful photos and fascinating texts! I’ve been to Avignon, but learned much this morning. Your grand aventure continues in new places!
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Thanks Shirley! We could have spent much more time in Avignon.
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I never could get my head around the notion of a half built bridge. Which self respecting architect gives up on a project like that? But I did still always want to see it, Tricia.
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Well, the river is quite mighty! Thanks Jo!
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Beautiful pictures Tricia! It all seems just so dreamy and perfect for strolling all day 🙂
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Thanks Meg! I’m so glad that you enjoyed the photos!
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Lovely! I visited le pont d’Avignon years ago and paid to walk on it. A bit of a disappointment, as you could, well, walk only halfway up, haha! I didn’t know about the vineyard, but it looks absolutely gorgeous, overlooking the bridge! Glad you had a wonderful time 🙂
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Yup, it’s a short walk to the center! It certainly is a beautiful area. Thanks Rebecca!
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What an interesting sight and story – a half built bridge. I love all your photos and Terry’s sketch is as ever wonderful. The small vineyard above the bridge is the perfect vantage point. Once again you show that Avignon is a beautiful place to stroll around, take in some local history and snap a few shots. I wish you safe travel back home, these must be very exciting days for you two.
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Isn’t it though? It seems like it could have been completed at some point, but that option is moot at this point. Avignon is indeed a wonderful place. Leaving France is bittersweet, but we’re leaving our options open. Thanks so much Leighton, I always appreciate your comments!
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Talk about unfinished business! That poor shepherd is probably crying in the hereafter (or haunting the bridge until he can finally rest at its completion) over the “close but no cigar” nature of the bridge.
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Lol! You’re spot on there, I never thought about that. Well, just be sure not to visit at night. Thanks for your comment!
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Such a coincidence, another blogger recently posted about that song. I have heard of the bridge but didn’t know the story. Safe travels home. Maggie
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Interesting, but then it’s a popular spot. Thanks Maggie!
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A famous bridge indeed. I remember it being one of the first songs I learned in school!! So great to see you today Tricia, and wishing you a safe flight.
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It certainly is at that. Thanks so much Hannah, it was lovely to meet you, and thanks so much for a delicious lunch!
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