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Pont du Gard: A Roman Aqueduct Masterpiece

Marvel at the Pont du Gard, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a masterpiece of Roman engineering, offering history, nature, and stunning views.

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The Pont du Gard is an ancient Roman aqueduct bridge built in the 1st century AD near Vers-Pont-du-Gard, France. This remarkably preserved structure, a UNESCO World Heritage site, once carried water over 50 km to the Roman city of Nemausus (Nîmes). Today, it stands as a testament to Roman engineering and a popular tourist destination.

A brief summary to Pont du Gard

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes as the site involves walking to explore the bridge and surrounding areas.
  • Visit during the week and preferably in the morning to avoid large crowds.
  • In the summer, stay until nightfall to witness the spectacular sound and light show.
  • Bring swimwear in the summer for a refreshing dip in the Gardon River.
  • Consider a guided tour to access the top level of the aqueduct and learn more about its construction.
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Getting There

  • Car

    The Pont du Gard is located near the A9 motorway, exit 23 - Remoulins. Follow signs towards Pont du Gard. There are two large parking areas, one on each bank of the Gardon River. Parking costs €9 per vehicle per day. The parking areas are open from 8 AM to midnight. From the parking area, it's a short walk to the visitor center and the bridge.

  • Public Transport

    From Nîmes or Avignon, take the regional bus (liO) to the 'Vers-Pont du Gard - Rond Point Pont du Gard' bus stop. From Nîmes, take bus line 121. From Avignon or Uzès, take bus line 115. A single bus ticket costs approximately €1.50 - €2. From the bus stop, walk along the D981 road towards the bridge (approximately 10-15 minutes).

  • Walking

    The Pont du Gard site is pedestrian-friendly. Hiking trails lead to and across the bridge. The GR6 hiking trail crosses the bridge. There is no charge for access to the Pont du Gard for hikers. Follow the well-marked paths from either the left or right bank to reach the bridge.

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Discover more about Pont du Gard

The Pont du Gard, a majestic Roman aqueduct bridge, stands as a remarkable feat of ancient engineering and a testament to the ingenuity of Roman architects. Constructed in the 1st century AD, around 19 BCE, this colossal structure was designed to carry water from the Eure spring near Uzès to the Roman colony of Nemausus (Nîmes), spanning a distance of approximately 50 kilometers. Rising almost 50 meters (164 feet) above the Gardon River, the Pont du Gard is an imposing three-tiered structure, with the longest tier measuring 275 meters. The bridge is composed of three levels of arches, built without mortar, a testament to the precision of Roman construction. The first tier consists of six arches, the second of eleven, and the third, which carries the water conduit (specus), features thirty-five smaller arches. The water conduit, approximately 1.8 meters high and 1.2 meters wide, transported an estimated 35,000 cubic meters of water daily to Nîmes, supplying its inhabitants, baths, fountains, and gardens. For centuries, the Pont du Gard has attracted visitors drawn to its architectural grandeur and historical significance. In 1985, UNESCO recognized its outstanding universal value by adding it to the list of World Heritage Sites. Today, the site offers a range of activities, including walking trails, a museum that explores Roman engineering, and access to the riverbanks for swimming and kayaking. Visitors can explore the bridge itself, walk along the river, and discover the surrounding Mediterranean landscape. The site also hosts sound and light shows in the summer evenings, adding a touch of magic to this ancient marvel.

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