Julian bridge
The Julian Bridge is one of the two Roman stone bridges that still exist. Located in Bonnieux, 8 km from Apt, it testifies to Roman ingenuity and sustainability.
84480, Bonnieux
The Julian Bridge is one of the two Roman stone bridges that still exist. Located in Bonnieux, 8 km from Apt, it testifies to Roman ingenuity and sustainability.
84480, Bonnieux
Located in the heart of Luberon, a few kilometers north of Bonnieux, the Julien Bridge is one of the most beautiful testimonies of Roman engineering in Provence. Built in limestone and traditionally dated to 3 BC, it impresses with its state of conservation and the elegance of its lines.
Long used for traffic, this ancient bridge has survived the centuries without losing its monumental strength. Today it remains one of the best preserved Roman structures in the region, in the middle of a particularly soothing Provençal landscape.
On foot or by bike, discovering the Julien Bridge allows you to combine heritage, outdoor walks and immersion in the ancient history of the territory.
The Julien Bridge is striking in the precision of its construction and the intelligence of its technical devices, designed to withstand time as well as the floods of the Calavon.
Built of limestone from the Luberon, the bridge consists of three semicircular arches, including a large central arch of about 16 meters. The whole testifies to the technical mastery of Roman engineers, capable of assembling large blocks of stone with extreme precision.
The stones are cut to fit perfectly, using a regular arrangement that contributes to the solidity of the structure. The batteries are also equipped with spurs to better distribute the force of the current and to protect the foundations during floods.
Through its proportions, simplicity and robustness, the Julian Bridge perfectly embodies Roman constructive genius and the attention paid to the sustainability of public structures.
The Julian Bridge was part of the Domitian Way, a major Roman road that ensured the connections between Italy and the western territories of the Empire. Its role was strategic for travel, trade and passenger traffic.
In particular, it linked the sectors of Cavaillon and Apt, by crossing the Calavon thanks to a structure designed to last. The bridge has thus been used for nearly two millennia, making it an exceptional witness to the continuity of traffic on the territory.
Classified as a historical monument since 1914, Pont Julien remains one of the most prestigious ancient buildings in Provence.
Its remarkable conservation still makes it possible to measure the importance of this Roman axis in the organization of ancient Provence today.
Since 2005, the Julien Bridge has no longer been used by cars and is part of the Calavon cycle route, making it a particularly pleasant place for pedestrians and cyclists.
The site is perfect for a contemplative stopover. Between the vineyards, fields and open landscapes of the Luberon, the bridge is discovered in a serene atmosphere, ideal for walking as well as for photography.
Its gentle access makes it easy to integrate the visit into a bike trip on the greenway or into a walking tour to discover the ancient heritage of Provence.
A nearby car park also facilitates access to the monument, for a free and pleasant visit through the Provençal landscape.
Photo gallery
Practical information on Julian bridge
Opening times and periods
From 01/01 to 31/12 daily.
Price(s)
Free access.
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