Valentré

Valentré refers to the Pont Valentré, a medieval bridge spanning the river Lot in Cahors, France. Construction of the bridge began in 1308 and was completed in 1375. It is a six-arched stone bridge, notable for its three prominent towers. The central tower is the largest and most imposing, originally designed to house the town's keys and treasury. The outer towers served defensive purposes.

The bridge has a rich history, having been the site of numerous conflicts and sieges. During the Hundred Years' War, the English captured Cahors and attempted to destroy the bridge to prevent French reinforcements from crossing. Legend has it that one of the bridge's architects, Jacques de Valentré, was accused of sabotage by his rivals and subsequently had his hand cut off. He is said to have thrown his severed hand at the bridge, cursing it to be forever incomplete, which is why one of the towers is said to be missing a spire.

The Pont Valentré is a significant historical monument and a popular tourist attraction. It was classified as a Monument historique in 1840 and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Routes of Santiago de Compostela in France. The bridge is still in use today, allowing pedestrians to cross the Lot and enjoy views of the city and the surrounding landscape. Its enduring structure and the legends surrounding it make it a distinctive symbol of Cahors.