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Origin and history

The aqueduct of Nîmes, built between 40 and 80 AD probably under Emperor Claude, was intended to bring water from the fountain of Eure (near Uzes) to Nîmes for about 50 km. Its route crossed the garrigue and crossed the Gardon via the bridge of the Gard, leading to the castelum divisorium of Nîmes. Research carried out between 1984 and 1990, complementing the study by Émile Espérandieu (1926), revealed two phases of use: a first period of optimal operation (150 years with clear water), followed by progressive degradation from the third century, marked by earth deposits. It probably ceased to function after the sixth century.

The construction was based on a sophisticated technique: an unarmed concrete radier (lime and limestone morter), masonated straight feet coated with waterproof coatings, and a canal covered with vaults or slabs. A reddish seal layer called malta (milk lime mixed with quartz sand rich in ferric oxide) reinforced the work. The average slope of 25 cm/km over 50 km allowed a flow of 35,000 m3/day. Buttresses and intertoises consolidated certain sections. In 2023, an additional portion of the pipe was discovered upstream of the fountain d'Eure, suggesting an extension of the collection points to the sources of the Moulin Neuf (Saint Quentin-la-Poterie).

Aqueduct is protected by historical monuments, acquired in stages. The bridge of the Gard was classified in 1840, followed by the castelum divisorium of Nîmes in 1875. Between 1979 and 1999, other remains were protected: arches of Remoulins (1979), bridges of Vers-Pont-du-Gard (1987), and sections of the communes crossed (Uzès, Argilliers, Bezouce, etc.). Protected elements include archaeological remains and parcels bordering the route, combining private and communal properties. In Bezouce, the decree of 23 March 1999 recorded the local remains, specifying their cadastral location.

The materials used reflect an advanced mastery of Roman engineering: hydraulic mortar, waterproof coatings, and a calculated slope for constant gravity flow. Analysis of wall concretions has been used to date the phases of use and decline. Although partially lined by a modern canal in the 19th century, the ancient aqueduct remains an exceptional testimony of Roman genius in Narbonnaise Gaul, harmoniously integrating the garrigue landscape and art works like the bridge of the Gard.

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