Albi: Historic bridge in south of France closed to vehicles for months of repairs
Alternative route is now open to drivers who want to cross Tarn river
Pont-Vieux is one of the oldest surviving medieval bridges in Europe. The bridge is pictured here in February 2024 when scaffolding was already being put up
Spech/Shutterstock
The historic Pont-Vieux in the heart of Albi (Tarn) is closed to road traffic for several months, as repair works are carried out.
The bridge – first constructed in the 11th century, and one of the oldest surviving in Europe – has been sporadically closed to vehicles in recent weeks as workers put up the necessary scaffolding and safety features for works to begin.
It was fully closed to road traffic on Monday (September 16), and is scheduled to remain so until May 6, 2025.
Pedestrians and cyclists will still be able to use it, however, as the local authorities pledged to keep it partially open for locals whilst the renovations were carried out.
The two roads leading up to the bridge on either side – rue Rinaldi and rue Porta – will temporarily be open to two-way traffic, to allow drivers to turn around
Drivers are advised to use an alternative bridge, the Pont de la République, to cross the Tarn river running through the historic city centre.
Access to this bridge is usually closed for vehicles during summer to allow cyclists and pedestrians to cross but has been reopened due to the temporary closure of the Pont-Vieux.
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