The Montagne des Anglais hiking circuit

2 points of interest

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  History and heritage

  Town of Saint-Affrique

  The name Saint-Affrique, with its two “F’s,” often raises curiosity. Its origin dates back to the 5th century, when Arian Visigoths were persecuting Catholic Christians. Africanus, a bishop exiled from Comminges, is said to have taken refuge near the Sorgues River, where he preached to the local population and performed various miracles – a story depicted in the stained-glass windows of the Church of Our Lady of Mercy. The name Saint-Affrique, attested as early as 942 in the archives of Vabres l’Abbaye, may come from the Visigothic term “Affric” or “Effric,” meaning “powerful and fearsome.”

  Anecdote : during the French Revolution, the town was briefly renamed “Montagne sur Sorgues” to remove any religious reference, as was common practice at the time.

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  History and heritage

  The Old Bridge of Saint-Affrique

  Listed as a historic monument, the Old Bridge is one of the most beautiful medieval bridges in France, documented as early as 1408. With its bold yet elegant design, it spans the river with a central arch measuring 21.4 meters, flanked by two smaller arches. Built with a humpback profile and supported by slender triangular piers, it perfectly illustrates the skill of medieval builders. A true landmark of Saint-Affrique, this architectural gem offers a journey back in time through the city’s history.