History of Pont Du Diable (Hérault) in France

I recently posted a blog about my trip to Sedona, where I saw the Devil’s Bridge. So, while I’m in the mood for talking about devil’s bridges, I figured I’d write about another popular one. 

In French, “pont du diable” means devil’s bridge. There are actually several “pont du diables” in France. However, the most prominent one is the one on the Hérault river. 

I studied abroad while I was in college, and we stayed in Montpellier, which isn’t too far away from the Hérault. So, I was able to see this awesome destination. 

It’s a stunning sight, especially with the warm sun glistening off the river in late spring or summer. I felt like I could stare out at it for hours. 

The History of Pont Du Diable on the Hérault

Built by Benedictine monks in the year 873, this bridge has been around for over 1,000 years. It’s one of the oldest Romanesque bridges in France. 

Since its construction, it has also been widened and raised several meters. Those improvements took place in 1770.  

While it was a modern architectural achievement in its time, the bridge has since become a bit overshadowed. About 200 meters behind it, a new road bridge was built that people could actually drive across. 

The new bridge will block your view from certain vantage points. However, when you find the right angle, you can still appreciate the history and architecture it has to offer. 

The Legend Behind Devil’s Bridges in France

French devil’s bridges share a historic legend that has been passed down through the generations. It goes as follows:

The villagers were desperate for a bridge to cross the river, so they called upon the devil for assistance. Their request was accepted, but it came with a cost. The devil would take the first soul to cross it. After the bridge was built, nobody crossed it. Parents warned their children to stay away. The only exception was if something was urgent. 

Some versions of the legend also say that people would send dogs or cats across the bridge. That would enrage the devil, and he’d try to destroy it. 

How You Can Experience the Hérault Pont Du Diable

There are many ways for visitors to experience this great landmark. 

Since parking in the area is so crowded, it’s often best to take the shuttle bus down to see it. 

Then, you can walk across the bridge, stand at nearby viewing points, or even spend time swimming, boating, or kayaking in the river. 

What Other Notable Pont Du Diables Are in France?

Those looking to see other devil’s bridges in France will find many. Some prominent ones are:

The Pont Du Diable in Céret

This stone devil’s bridge gives an almost medieval look, in my opinion. It’s a cool landmark expanding over the Tech River. Plus, the Céret village is a fun place to visit. It’s an artistic village with lots of historic pieces featured throughout. 

Pont Valentré

If you want an even more medieval look, Pont Valentré is a great one to see. In 1879, it was modernized and fortified with three guard towers. It’s one of the best landmarks to see when you visit the town of Cahors. 

Pont Du Diable in the village of Signes

The Pond Du Diable in Signes is a smaller and less prominent bridge. However, this little town based in a mountainous region has a lot of neat features that draw visitors to it.