This is the bridge which features in the song ““Sur le pont d’Avignon”” although it is unlikely any dancing was done on the bridge which was too narrow. More probably dancing took place under the bridge, on the island which the bridge crosses in the middle of the Rhone. It was an important river crossing in the middle ages for two reasons: it was the only fixed crossing between Lyon and the sea, and it joined the area controlled by the kings of France to the area controlled by the popes, and so was heavily defended on both sides. Originally built in the 12th century, it was inspired by a shepherd boy who was told by an angel to build it in that spot. Frequent river floods nmeant it was destroyed several times, until finally in the 17th century half of it was carried away and never rebuilt. A small chapel dedicated to St Nicholas, patron saint of Rhone boatmen stands on the bridge. Together with the Palais des Papes, Notre Dame des Doms and the Petit Palais, it forms a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Pont Saint Bénezet is a top attraction in Avignon, known for its unique features that attract numerous visitors each year.
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Discover nearby attractions, such as Pont Saint Bénezet, Notre dame des Doms, Le musée du Petit Palais, Palais des Papes, Opéra-Théâtre, all within a convenient distance from Pont Saint Bénezet.