Pont du Gard

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Ancient Roman aqueduct bridge in France

Pont du Gard

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The Pont du Gard

The Pont du Gard is an ancient Roman aqueduct bridge located in the commune of Vers-Pont-du-Gard near Remoulins, in the Gard department of France. It is part of the Nîmes aqueduct, a 50 km (31 mi) long structure built to carry water from a spring at Uzès to the Roman colony of Nemausus (modern-day Nîmes). The Pont du Gard is the highest of all Roman aqueduct bridges and is one of the best-preserved.

History

The Pont du Gard was constructed in the 1st century AD during the reign of Emperor Augustus. The aqueduct was designed to carry water across the Gardon River to supply the city of Nîmes with fresh water. The bridge was built using limestone blocks, some of which weigh up to 6 tons. The construction of the Pont du Gard is a testament to the engineering prowess of the Romans.

Architecture

The Pont du Gard is an arch bridge that stands 48.8 meters (160 feet) high and spans 275 meters (902 feet) across the Gardon River. It consists of three tiers of arches, with the lower tier having six arches, the middle tier eleven, and the upper tier thirty-five. The design of the bridge allows it to withstand the flow of the river and the weight of the water it carried.

Significance

The Pont du Gard is a remarkable example of Roman engineering and has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985. It is one of the most visited ancient monuments in France and continues to attract tourists from around the world. The bridge also serves as a symbol of the ingenuity and architectural skills of the Romans.

Preservation

Over the centuries, the Pont du Gard has undergone several restoration efforts to preserve its structure. In the 18th century, it was used as a toll bridge, and in the 19th century, it was restored by the French engineer Charles Laisné. Today, it is maintained as a historical monument and is protected by the French government.

Related Pages

• Ancient Roman architecture
• Roman aqueduct
• Nîmes
• UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Gard

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