When I spotted a tour to the Pont du Gard, I knew we had to take it. The all-day Best of Provence adventure from Avignon took us to places I had only dreamed about.
The ancient Roman aqueduct Pont du Gard was our first stop as we learned about the area’s history and culture. My excitement grew as I stood beneath the golden arches of the Pont du Gard. It’s impossible not to stand in awe and feel small in the presence of something so enduring.
Rising nearly fifty metres above the Gardon River, this ancient aqueduct bridge has defied time, floods, and centuries of human change. Hand-carved, stone by stone, without mortar, it remains the tallest Roman bridge ever built and one of France’s most astonishing UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
My daughter Melanie stands in awe, looking at the golden arches of the Pont du Gard. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
A map of the location of the Pont du Gard, the Gardon River and the surrounding area. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
An Aqueduct of Ingenious Design
Built in the 1st century AD, nearly 2,000 years ago, the Pont du Gard formed part of a vast 50-kilometre aqueduct that once carried fresh spring water from Uzès to the bustling Roman city of Nîmes. Engineers achieved what seems almost impossible even today: the entire aqueduct dropped only seventeen metres from source to town, less than the height of a two-storey house over fifty kilometres. This gentle slope allowed water to flow by gravity alone.
The bridge’s three tiers of arches stretch about 275 metres across the valley. Each limestone block was precisely cut so tightly that they’ve locked together for nearly two millennia. Standing on the riverbank, I traced the pattern of sunlight across the stones and marvelled at the symmetry, the craftsmanship, and the quiet confidence of those who built what seemed impossible.
Melanie on the bridge pathway at Pont du Gard France. Photo: Melanie Lomond@
Lost Arches and Reclaimed Stones
The aqueduct stopped working in the 6th century. Then the bridge fell into disrepair. In the 12th century, twelve of its arches were dismantled as villagers quarried stones to build their homes, churches and other fortifications. The bridge endured floods, neglect, and the wear of wagons that once rattled across its lower level. Yet somehow, its monumental form never collapsed.
A Roman Masterpiece Saved by Napoleon
Thankfully, in the early 1800s, Napoleon III recognized the historical significance of the Pont du Gard not only as a relic of Roman power but also as a symbol of France’s own cultural legacy. He ordered its restoration and commissioned a parallel road bridge so travellers could cross the river without damaging the ancient arches. His decision saved the structure from further decay, marking one of France’s first great acts of heritage preservation.
The golden arches of the Pont du Gard, France. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
The golden arches of the Pont du Gard, France. The tallest Roman-built bridge. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
View from the bridge looking down the Gardon River. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
A Living Link to the Past
Today, the Pont du Gard is far more than an archaeological wonder. It’s a gathering place, families picnic by the river, kayakers paddle below and at dusk the arches glow amber in the fading light. Standing there, I felt a connection that spanned centuries: from Roman engineers chiselling limestone by hand to a French emperor who saw the value of protecting the past.
History, craftsmanship and nature converge in this valley, reminding us that true artistry transcends time. The best journeys are the ones we take slowly, where there’s time to pause, to listen and to let history tell its story.
Summer Sound and Light Show at Pont du Gard
In the summer months, July and August, don’t miss a chance to see the spectacular sound and light show in the evening.
Discover more about France in our ongoing series, including our luxury Riverside river cruise through some of the area’s most storied landscapes.
Subscribe to Life’s Incredible Journey for more unforgettable travel guides, cultural experiences, and hidden gems—delivered straight to your inbox.
👉 Join the adventure here
Search for accommodation anywhere using Booking.Com, book a sightseeing tour using Viator or a flight with Expedia and any commissions earned will help keep this website running.
About the Author:
Wendy Nordvik-Carr is a highly regarded travel writer who produces quality, well-researched articles with stunning photography and video.
She seeks out authentic experiences showcasing the people, culture and history that make each destination unique. Her focus is on solo, couple and multigenerational travel through cruising, air and road trip adventures.
Wendy is the editor & writer for LifesIncredibleJourney.com, an award-winning travel site that encourages exploration of destinations near & far.
She is a TMAC Director, Chair, National Governance Committee and Chair of TMAC's BC & Yukon Chapter, as well as a member of SATW, IFWTWA and NATJA.
Have you been here? Want to go or have other tips or comments. We'd love to hear from you.