PONT DU GARD Date: 20-16BC (Augustan) Dimensions: 50m high and 275m long. Gradient: 1:3000 Material: Local Limestone Location: The river Gardon, 21km from Nimes. Source: Uzes Destination: Nimes

Water Transport The system was made up of: A channel supported by low walls, Underground piping, and - Bridge aqueducts like the Pont du Gard.

General Features The aqueduct supplied _____ of water a day for each person in Nemausus The c________ (where water flowed) was in the top level. There are ___ arches in total. A road bridge was added in the_____ The vaults of the arches get ______ towards the bottom. Get the answers from this video clip Clip is ‘Pont du Gard’ – you will need to link it up.

3RD LEVEL: There were three arches per lower level arch. Construction and Design Three levels of Arch 3RD LEVEL: There were three arches per lower level arch. 2ND LEVEL: Arches are parallel to those on the first level - same wooden frame could be used. 1ST LEVEL: Arches mostly the same width, apart from a wider central arch across the river. (equivalent to four arches on 3rd level)

Problems and Solutions Problem: Supporting and distributing the weight of the structure. Solution:

Problems and Solutions Problem: The bottom of the gorge (142m) was narrower than the top (275m). Solution:

Problems and Solutions Maintaining such a massive structure Solution:

Problems and Solutions Transporting the water across the aqueduct without leakage or erosion. Solution:

Problems and Solutions Problem: Erosion from the river. Solution:

Problems and Solutions Problem: Force of wind. Solution:

Other Functions: The Pont du Gard also served propaganda functions: Encouraged the Southern Gauls to view Roman occupation positively. Encouraged Roman settlement in Nimes. The Romans technological genius impressed locals and discouraged rebellion Such an architectural achievement also reflected well on its architect, Marcus Agrippa, and his father-in-law Augustus.