Pont Du Gard Roman Aqueduct

Pont du Gard: A Marvel of Ancient Engineering

Welcome to the comprehensive guide for visiting the Pont du Gard, a remarkable testament to the architectural prowess of the ancient Roman Empire! This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an essential stop for anyone interested in history, engineering, or simply admiring breathtaking sights. Here’s everything you need to know about your visit.

Location and Getting There

The Pont du Gard is located between the towns of Uzès and Remoulins, along the Gardon River, in the South of France. The nearest major cities are Avignon (25 miles/40 km) and Nîmes (19 miles/30 km). You can easily reach it by car, bus, or train.

History and Significance

Constructed between 46 and 40 BC as part of the Aqueduct of Nimes, the Pont du Gard served to transport water from the springs at Fontaine-ès-Eaux to the Roman colony of Nemausus (now Nîmes). With a total length of approximately 52 kilometers (32 miles), it remains one of the best preserved and most impressive feats of ancient engineering.

Architecture and Design

The Pont du Gard stands as an astounding example of Roman arch bridges, featuring three tiers of arches. The lowest tier consists of 16 arches, each 5 meters wide (16 ft). Above this, there are 11 larger arches, with the central arch being the tallest at 49 meters (161 ft). The uppermost level contains six even larger arches that are used to walk across.

Visiting Pont du Gard

  • Ticket Price: The entry fee for adults is €9, while children under 18 and students with a valid ID can enter for free. Families can purchase a family ticket for €20 (up to 5 people).

  • Opening Hours: The site is open every day from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM during the summer months, and until 5:00 PM in winter. Closing hours may vary, so it’s best to check their official website for updates.

  • Accessibility: The lower and middle tiers of the bridge are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers; however, only the upper tier can be reached by stairs.

Tips for Your Visit

  1. Bring water and snacks: There is a cafeteria on site, but it may get busy during peak tourist season.
  2. Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll want to walk around and explore the various levels of the bridge.
  3. Use sun protection: During summer months, the Pont du Gard can be quite hot; remember to apply sunscreen and wear a hat.
  4. Visit during different times of day: The lighting changes throughout the day, creating unique photo opportunities.
  5. Consider guided tours: For a deeper understanding of the site’s history and significance, join one of the guided tours available in various languages.

We hope this guide helps you make the most of your visit to Pont du Gard! Don’t hesitate to ask any questions or share your experiences with us. Enjoy your journey through time as you marvel at this remarkable ancient aqueduct.