Pont Saint Martin in the Aosta Valley was the end of my second trip on the GTA. Here, on the same day, I made a forced march from Refugio Coda early in the morning with a 2000m altitude loss descent into the Aosta Valley. After still being in the cold at the top, it was almost 30 degrees summery warm in the Italian town. I had to get myself two ice creams straight away and was able to take a brief look at the thousand-year-old city in the evening. There was already a settlement there in Roman times and the bridge was 2000 years old!
In the heart of the Aosta Valley, where ancient Roman roads once crossed alpine rivers on their way to Gaul, lies one of the most remarkable bridges of antiquity: the Pont-Saint-Martin. This small town, named after its iconic Roman bridge, is more than just a stop along the way – it is a place where history, legend, and local tradition come together in a fascinating story. In this video, we explore Pont-Saint-Martin, uncovering its past and discovering why this ancient structure has fascinated travelers for centuries.
The centerpiece of the town is, of course, the Roman bridge itself. Built in the 1st century BC, it spans the rushing waters of the Lys River in a single majestic arch, stretching almost 36 meters – an extraordinary engineering feat for its time. Standing beneath its massive stone arch, you can still feel the power and ingenuity of Roman builders, who designed it as part of the Via delle Gallie, the great road that linked Rome with northern Europe. For over 2,000 years, this bridge has carried travelers, merchants, soldiers, and pilgrims across the valley.
But the Pont-Saint-Martin is not only a marvel of architecture – it is also wrapped in legend. According to local tradition, the bridge was built with the help of the devil himself. When the people of the valley struggled to cross the wild Lys River, the devil offered to build a bridge in exchange for the soul of the first to cross it. The villagers accepted, but when the bridge was finished, they sent a dog across instead of a person, outwitting the devil and claiming the bridge for themselves. To this day, the story is remembered, adding a mythical charm to the stone monument.
Around the bridge, the town of Pont-Saint-Martin offers visitors a chance to step back in time while also enjoying the lively culture of the Aosta Valley. The narrow streets and historic buildings reflect a blend of Roman roots and medieval heritage. Each February, the town comes alive with the Pont-Saint-Martin Carnival, one of the oldest in the region. During this festival, the legend of the bridge is reenacted, complete with parades, costumes, music, and the symbolic burning of the devil on the riverbanks – a tradition that ties the community to its history in a vibrant way.
For travelers exploring the Aosta Valley, Pont-Saint-Martin is also the gateway to the valley of Gressoney and the Monte Rosa massif. Surrounded by alpine peaks and lush green hills in summer – and snow-capped beauty in winter – the setting is as spectacular as the bridge itself. Hikers, cyclists, and skiers will find plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures in the surrounding valleys, while food lovers can enjoy local Aosta specialties, from fontina cheese to mountain wines.
What makes Pont-Saint-Martin special is how it embodies the spirit of continuity. The bridge has survived centuries of floods, wars, and the passage of time. It connects not just the two banks of the Lys River, but also the ancient world with the present day, Rome with Gaul, history with legend. Walking across its ancient stones, you are literally following in the footsteps of thousands of travelers who came before – a tangible link to the Roman world that is still part of daily life.
So why visit Pont-Saint-Martin? Because it is more than just a bridge. It is a symbol of ingenuity, endurance, and community. It is a place where history is alive, where legends are celebrated, and where the stunning natural beauty of the Aosta Valley provides the perfect backdrop. Whether you come to admire Roman engineering, to hear the story of the devil’s bridge, or to enjoy the carnival and mountain traditions, Pont-Saint-Martin will leave a lasting impression.
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