|
The roads and rivers of medieval Europe were crowded with travellers: royal households on the move, government couriers on diplomatic missions, ecclesiastics going to Rome and back, pilgrims on journeys to Jerusalem or Compostela which could take months or even years. This in spite of the fact that maps were rudimentary, carriages uncomfortable and the dangers of robbery real.
The Pont Valentré is a 14th-century six-span fortified stone arch bridge crossing the Lot River to the west of Cahors, in France. It has become a symbol of the city. It was built between 1308 and 1378 with six Gothic arches and three square bridge towers. It opened for use in 1350. It was originally fortified at both ends, but the western tower has not survived.
|
