Pont du Gard (Roman Aqueduct)
By Kristy Brandt
What is Pont du Gard?
Pont du Gard is an ancient Roman aqueduct bridge that crosses the River Gardon in France, near the town of Vers-Pont-du-Gard. It’s both the highest Roman aqueduct still standing today, as well as one of the best preserved, hence why it’s so popular and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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It’s a three-tiered bridge with different sized arches and was used for both transporting water as well as a bridge for people. Today it is no longer used as an aqueduct, but you can still walk across it. It’s so popular that it’s one of the top five tourist attractions in France!
It’s estimated that construction of the Pont du Gard started around 19 BC, and finished in 1 AD. It’s a masterpiece of Roman architecture, and has been a site of pilgrimage for stonemasons and tourists since at least the 18th century. It was originally part of a 50-kilometer aqueduct system that supplied the city of Nîmes with water.
Why is Pont du Gard a UNESCO World Heritage site?
Pont du Gard was designated a site of outstanding universal value by UNESCO in 1985 because it is an exceptional example of the construction processes of the Roman imperial era, which also transfigures the landscape around it.
What can you expect on a visit to Pont du Gard?
As its UNESCO listing states, the Pont du Gard looks absolutely stunning as it towers over the rocky Gardon River. Visitors can walk across the bridge and see the amazing construction that has been standing for over 2,000 years, which was all built without machinery or mortar or anything like that! For an extra fee, you can also take a guided tour of the very top level, which stands almost 50 meters above the ground.
The whole thing dwarfs people, and also offers stunning views over the river and the foliage on the banks when you are standing on it. The site offers parking, a cafeteria, a fancy restaurant, a visitor center, a museum, and gift shops, as well as hiking trails around the main bridge. There are also periodic exhibitions and events held throughout the year (especially during summer).
It does cost money to visit, but the fees include secure parking if you are coming by car. There are also public toilets and an ATM on site if needed. It’s a great spot for a picnic, hiking and going swimming or kayaking in the river as well.
Use the map below to book accommodations near Pont du Gard or type in the name of the town where you’d prefer to stay:
Is Pont du Gard worth visiting?
Travelers to the south of France who are into nature, hiking and swimming, or just incredible feats of engineering, should definitely visit Pont du Gard. It’s a long way from Paris though (at least seven hours to drive, or around three by train to Nîmes), so it’s best saved for a visit when you are in the region.
Find tours from various cities that include Pont du Gard here.
Tips for visiting Pont du Gard
- Try to set aside at least a few hours (or even half to a full day) to visit, so you can really get your money’s worth. You could easily spend an hour in just the museum, so it’s better to take your time and really enjoy the whole area.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking, and even if you plan to go kayaking or swimming, as it is a rocky river.
- The three olive trees next to the river are 1,000 years old, so make sure you have a look at them too!
- Pont du Gard is ideally situated to combine it with a visit to the town of Avignon, since it’s just half an hour away and also home to a UNESCO World Heritage site. There’s a historic palace, cathedral and bridge, plus the whole place is beautiful. Other parts of Provence are also close by if you want to see some more pretty parts of the region.
- If you are particularly interested in more Roman history and architecture, only an hour south is Arles, a city packed with ancient Roman structures of which many are also UNESCO world heritage sites.
Where is Pont du Gard?
Pont du Gard is located at 400 Rte du Pont du Gard, 30210 Vers-Pont-du-Gard, France.
The easiest way to visit is by car, at just a half-hour’s drive from nearby Avignon or Nîmes, a bit over an hour from Montpellier or an hour and a half from Marseille. There are plenty of signposts to help guide you and secure parking is included in the entry price.
It’s also possible to get to Pont du Gard via public transport, as there are buses from Avignon (about 40 minutes’ travel time) or Nîmes (about 45 minutes).
For more information about Pont du Gard, its opening hours and admission fees, see its official website.
Have you been to Pont du Gard? If so, do you have any additional information or advice about this UNESCO World Heritage site? Please add your comments below!
Text and photos provided by Kristy Brandt of Tassie Devil Abroad. Kristy writes about expat life and travel in Europe (particularly in The Netherlands), along with guides to her homeland of Australia. She tends to focus on quirky, geeky and literary attractions or destinations.