Avignon is one of the most beautiful cities in southern France and is worth visiting if you travel through fabulous Provence. You can get here from Marseille by a high-speed commuter train in just 35 minutes. With its narrow cobbled streets, ancient architecture, green spaces, interesting events, and festivals, it is very trendy among tourists. In 2000, Avignon was elected the European Capital of Culture.

The history of the city is closely connected to the fact that the Pope’s residence was transferred here in the 14th century. The landmark of the city is the most beautiful pedestrian bridge on the left bank of the Rhone, which was named after Saint Benezet, but is often referred to as the Avignon Bridge.

According to legend, a young shepherd named Benoit, who later became famous under the name of Saint Benezet, received a commission from God to build a bridge in Avignon when he was only 12 years old. The construction started in 1177 and finished eight years later. The gigantic structure, 915 meters long with 22 arched spans, was considered a real miracle.

In the Middle Ages, the bridge was an important link between the residences of the cardinals and the famous Papal Palace. Whenever people of high standing crossed it, they stopped by Saint Benezet’s statue, prayed, and donated a coin to charity.

Because the bridge did not have parapets, there were frequent falls and accidents; therefore, two centuries later, the bridge was fenced off by order of one of the cardinals. One of the last to use the passage was King Louis XIV of France.

The bridge began to collapse of its own accord at the beginning of the 17th century. Even despite the repairs, the arches continued to fall into the water. Now the bridge is an incomplete structure. Its highlight is that for more than 350 years, it has not been fulfilling its purpose as it ends right in the middle of the water. Still, it has great historical and cultural value.

The bridge has a 4.50 euros per person entrance fee, but you can buy a multi-pass and visit it together with the Papal Palace.