The Old Bridge

The Pont-Vieux

The Carcassonne audio-guided tour invites you to cross the Pont-Vieux, which spans the Aude and links the Medieval City to the lower town. For centuries it was the only crossing between the two parts of the town, and today offers superb views of the fortress.

A 14th-century bridge

A bridge already allowed the Aude to be crossed in Roman times, but the first document attesting its presence dates from 1184. After Carcassonne was annexed to the royal domain, the king drained the marshes, diverted the Aude and expelled the inhabitants of the City, who settled in the lower town. The Pont-Vieux was then rebuilt during the first half of the 14th century, probably in several stages: its uneven arches bear witness to successive works.

What there is to see

Two arches collapsed in 1456 but were quickly repaired, and some parts reworked in 1559, without the bridge losing its medieval appearance. A pedestrian bridge today, it offers one of the best viewpoints over the City and the neighbouring Pont-Neuf. The peaceful crossing links the Trivalle district to the lower town.

Practical information

The Pont-Vieux is reserved for pedestrians and can be crossed freely, at any time. It links the entrance to the City, on the Rue Trivalle side, to the Bastide Saint-Louis. It is an essential crossing for photographing the walled city, particularly enjoyable at sunrise or sunset.

How old is the Pont-Vieux ?

A bridge is attested from 1184, but the present structure was rebuilt during the first half of the 14th century.

Can the Pont-Vieux be crossed by car ?

No, it is now reserved for pedestrians and offers one of the finest viewpoints over the City.