Pont du Gard

Pont du Gard

The Pont du Gard was built in the late BC era to allow the Nîmes Aqueduct (approximately 50 kilometers long) to cross the Gardon River. The Roman architects and hydraulic engineers who designed this bridge created a masterpiece of both technology and art.

The bridge has three levels, stands about 50 meters high, and is up to 275 meters long, with each level consisting of consecutive arched openings. The lowest level features six large arches, each topped by four identical smaller arches (6.36 meters deep), a structure that gives the bridge strength to withstand the force of water flow. The middle level contains eleven arches, each topped by three identical smaller arches (4.56 meters deep); the central arch spanning the main waterway is wider than the others (24.5 meters) to increase water flow and reduce pressure. The top level has thirty-five arches, each topped by a single small arch (3.06 meters deep); on this level, the higher density of arches and narrower spaces between them help reduce wind stress acting on the bridge at that height.

Each arch is supported by identical, parallel smaller arches, which made the construction, measurement, and restoration of the Pont du Gard more economical and efficient. Supporting each arch only requires a wooden framework, and during restoration, a single wooden form can be placed on the circular recesses left for that purpose during the original construction — these were intentionally designed for future repairs. Another remarkable feature of the Pont du Gard is that its arches and supports are made of stone and mortar, rather than the concrete and steel used in modern bridges.

Pont du Gard (Roman Aqueduct)

Must-visit reason: One of France’s most outstanding bridges in terms of both engineering and artistic achievement

Continent where the attraction is located: Europe【Europe】

Country/Region where the attraction is located: France[France]

Province/State where the attraction is located: Languedoc-Roussillon Region [Languedoc-Roussillon Region]