Pont-Vieux – Old Bridge

Introducing the Pont-Vieux, the Old Bridge, that has connected the two banks of the Tarn River for centuries. It’s one of the oldest medieval bridges still in use in France and it was listed as a historical monument in 1921! Back in the Middle Ages, Albi was booming. With trade flourishing, the city desperately needed a bridge to span the river and connect the growing population on the two banks. That’s how the Pont-Vieux, originally called the Tarn Bridge, came to be. Construction was completed in the 11th century, revealing a structure with 8 arches stretching a total of 151 meters in length. However, it’s seen its fair share of changes over the years. In the Middle Ages, Albi became a major trading hub of great renown in France and Europe, and the bridge became a toll bridge. It was even equipped with a drawbridge and a fortified gate tower for extra protection. The money collected from the tolls was used to help with the upkeep of the city walls and the bridge itself. In the 16th century, the bridge took on a new look, with the construction of half-timbered houses atop each of its pillars. These housed 11 families of craftsmen and merchants, but were ultimately all swept away by a flood in 1766. With a history going back eight centuries, the Pont-Vieux is still a crucial lifeline for the city. Plus, it offers stunning panoramic views over Albi’s historic center!