GARD

For our anniversary issue, Janet Brice explores France’s 30th département, bridging the gap between Roman ruins and the birthplace of denim

- Janet Brice

What did the Romans ever do for us? This is a phrase which will resonate with Python fans everywhere and something you can experience for yourself when travelling through France’s 30th département.

The extraordinary three-tiered aqueduct which crosses the Gardon River is what the Romans did for people living in the Occitanie region of France. Today, the Pont du Gard is one of the country’s top attractions and is truly a mesmerising sight. It was once part of a 50km-long system of channels built around 19BC to transport water from Uzès to the département’s capital of Nîmes.

The scale is huge: the bridge is 48.8 metres high, 275 metres long and graced with 52 arches. It was the highest in the Roman Empire and was used to carry water to the fountains, baths and homes of the city.

At the visitor centre on the northern bank, there’s a high-tech museum for you to learn more about how each six-tonne block was placed together without the need for mortar.

You can enjoy panoramic views of the river when you walk across the tiers, but the best perspective for a photograph of the bridge is just downstream, along the picturesque Mémoires de Garrigue walking trail.

Top tip is to buy the Pass Aqueduc, as you can then stroll (by guided tour) along the bridge’s top-most tier, along which the water flowed. Visit early evening to see the bridge illuminated in all its glory.

Capital of the département is Nîmes, regarded by many as the best-kept secret of the French south. The city will impress you with its magnificent 2,000-year-old temple, year-round sunshine, festivals and stunning new cultural venue.