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Bridge · Cahors, Occitânia
Pont Valentré
The 14th-century fortified bridge over the Lot, with three towers and six Gothic arches, a World Heritage site and the symbol of Cahors. Pedestrian only.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Pont Valentré
Pont Valentré crosses the Lot river west of Cahors' centre and is the town's symbol. Construction was decided in 1306, began in 1308 and was not completed until 1378, during a period of tension between France and England, shortly before the Hundred Years' War. The bridge is 138 metres long, with six Gothic arches and three square towers about 40 metres high.
It is one of the best-known examples of a medieval fortified bridge in Europe: the towers had doors and guards, and the ends of the bridge were protected. It was restored in the 19th century by the architect Paul Gout. Since 1998 it has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage as a monument of the routes to Santiago in France; pilgrims on the Le Puy way leave Cahors across it.
The bridge is also called the Devil's Bridge because of a legend: the master builder is said to have made a pact with the Devil to finish the bridge and then tricked him. In revenge, the Devil would pull a stone from the central tower every night. During the restoration, Paul Gout placed a little devil sculpture there, which can still be seen atop the tower.
The bridge is for pedestrians only. The banks of the Lot, on both sides, have paths from which the whole bridge can be seen.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
30 minutes to 1 hour, including the walk along the banks.
Best time
Early in the morning, with low light and few people, or at dusk when the bridge is illuminated.
How to get there
It lies west of the centre, about a 10-minute walk from Cahors station and 15 minutes from the cathedral.
Tip
Look for the little devil carved at the top of the central tower. For the classic photo of the whole bridge, go down to the banks of the Lot, upstream.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Pont Valentré
What is the legend of the Pont Valentré?
The master builder is said to have made a pact with the Devil to finish the bridge and then tricked him. During the 19th-century restoration a small devil figure was placed on the central tower, which can still be seen.
Can you cross the bridge?
Yes, on foot. The bridge is pedestrian-only.
Is the Pont Valentré a World Heritage Site?
Yes, since 1998, as part of the Routes of Santiago de Compostela in France.