The Pont d’Avignon is a testament to the exciting history of the capital of Vaucluse.
Built between 1177 and 1185, the Saint-Bénezet Bridge, known as “Pont d’Avignon”, originally consisted of 22 arches connecting Avignon with Villeneuve lez Avignon. Extensive subsequent damage from war and flooding from the Rhone river means that now only 4 arches remain.
Originally, it was the only existing link over the river between Lyon and the sea. Today, globally recognised by the song “Sur le pont d’Avignon”, it is declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The Pont d’Avignon, in 3D!
Take a famous historical bridge and rebuild it entirely in 3D. This was what the creators of “Avignon 3D” decided to do, having created a new app which now proudly showcases the French bridge: The Pont d’Avignon. A 600 year virtual throwback brought to life by augmented reality.
This mobile app allows history lovers to travel back straight to the heart of the Middle-Ages and discover the majesty of this southern landmark just as it was in 1550.
The idea behind “Avignon 3D” was established by a team of historians, architects and geologists that were keen to discover the history behind the bridge. It was 4 years in the making, a true technological advancement.
The Pont d’Avignon like you’ve never seen before
A team of directors have brought this research to life by completely remodelling the bridge in 3D. The app allows you to scroll through and view the bridge in its various stages between the 14th and 17th centuries, also showcasing three other historical locations:
- Le Rocher de Doms (the Rock of the Doms), overlooking the Pont d’Avignon
- L’île de la Barthelasse (the Island of the Barthelasse)
- La Tour de Phillipe le Bel (the Tower of Philip the Fair)
The Pont d’Avignon, the Rhone river and the Tower of Philip the Fair are all shown in the app within one stunning landscape for you to view. As additional content, “Avignon 3D” comes with videos and interviews for an enhanced experience, delving into its historical background.
The app can be downloaded for free on the App Store and on Android, in both English and French (see links opposite).
Address
Pont d'Avignon
Boulevard de la Ligne
84000 Avignon